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Best Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese (Easy Homemade Recipe)

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This creamy, comforting three-cheese baked mac and cheese uses a clever cottage cheese base for a silky sauce without a roux. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for potlucks or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound cavatappi or elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a blender, combine cottage cheese and whole milk. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth. Set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the blended cottage cheese mixture, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk and warm through for about 2 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time, whisking constantly until melted and glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour the drained pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece is coated.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  8. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. For extra crunch, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce. Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven. Let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to set. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and panko.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, three cheese mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, comfort food, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://lolaspoon.com/best-three-cheese-baked-mac-and-cheese-easy-homemade-recipe/