Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Few dishes scream comfort food quite like a bubbling, golden-brown tray of Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni. This ultimate baked mac and cheese combines creamy, gooey richness with a crisp, cheesy topping that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a potluck with friends, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the balance of three kinds of cheese, each adding a different flavor and texture. The result? A luxuriously creamy sauce that hugs every macaroni noodle, finished with a perfectly baked crust that gives just the right amount of crunch. You don’t need a special occasion to make this — it is the occasion.

---

Why You’ll Love This Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

• It’s packed with flavor thanks to a blend of sharp, melty, and creamy cheeses.
• It has the perfect contrast of textures: creamy inside with a crispy top.
• It’s easy to prep ahead and reheat, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Kids love it, adults crave it, and leftovers (if there are any) are even better the next day.

---

What Kind of Cheese Works Best in This Baked Macaroni?

Choosing the right trio of cheeses is key to nailing this dish. You want a balance of bold flavor, creamy meltiness, and gooey stretch. For this recipe, we’re using sharp cheddar for a punch of flavor, mozzarella for that satisfying melt, and Gruyère to bring a nutty depth that makes this dish unforgettable. Of course, you can mix it up with your own favorites — smoked gouda or fontina are great swaps!

---

Ingredients for the Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish creamy, flavorful, and perfectly indulgent:

• Elbow macaroni – Holds onto the creamy sauce with its shape, making each bite rich and flavorful.
• Butter – Forms the base of the roux, giving the sauce a silky texture.
• All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
• Whole milk – Creates a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
• Heavy cream – Adds extra indulgence and thickness.
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Brings bold, classic flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – Gives that amazing gooey stretch.
• Gruyère cheese – Adds depth and nutty notes.
• Salt and pepper – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Ground mustard (optional) – Adds a tangy sharpness that complements the cheese.
• Paprika or smoked paprika (optional) – A light sprinkle adds color and a subtle warmth to the topping.

---

How To Make the Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside — it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden and smells nutty.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Cream

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, making sure there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses

Remove the sauce from heat and add in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard if using.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of paprika. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

---

How to Serve and Store This Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own but can also round out a delicious meal. It serves 6-8 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

To serve, scoop it fresh from the oven when it’s golden and bubbling. If making ahead, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk before microwaving or baking to revive the creamy texture.

For freezing, portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe dishes before baking, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

---

What to Serve With Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni?

H3: Crisp Green Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese.

H3: Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty and colorful pairing.

H3: Garlic Bread

Buttery, garlicky bread is a classic side that’s always welcome.

H3: Grilled Chicken

A simple protein like grilled chicken makes this mac and cheese part of a fuller meal.

H3: BBQ Ribs

The smoky, savory flavor of ribs pairs amazingly with creamy pasta.

H3: Tomato Soup

Creamy macaroni with a warm bowl of tomato soup? Total comfort.

H3: Sauteed Greens

Spinach or kale sauteed with garlic adds a healthy touch.

H3: Apple Slaw

Crisp, slightly sweet apple slaw provides a refreshing contrast.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like smoked gouda, fontina, Colby Jack, or even blue cheese if you like a bold twist. Just make sure you have a good balance of meltiness and flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish up to one day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely. Use gluten-free macaroni and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use all milk instead. It will be slightly less rich, but still creamy and delicious. You could also mix in a bit of cream cheese to thicken the sauce.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it anytime.
Check out more daily recipe inspiration on my Pinterest!

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or switch up the cheese combo? Maybe added a crunchy breadcrumb topping? I love seeing your variations and answering any questions you have — let’s make delicious meals together.

---

Conclusion

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni isn’t just a dish — it’s a warm hug in a bowl. From the creamy sauce to the golden top, it’s pure comfort food at its best. Whether served solo or paired with your favorite sides, this recipe promises to be a family favorite. Keep it on your meal rotation for an easy dinner idea that feels like a treat every time.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?