pasta
baked
everyday
main course
creamy
American
all seasons
Hot


American Mac and Cheese (Three-Cheese Pasta)
Difficulty
easy
Time
50m
Price Category
average
Calories
High
American Mac and Cheese is a true classic, offering the perfect harmony of creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta. This three-cheese version provides an even richer and more flavorful experience, a real treat for the soul. It's an ideal choice for a cold evening or whenever you crave something truly hearty and delicious. Prepare it for your family, and it's guaranteed to become everyone's favorite!
ingredients
Steps
Cook Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 60g of butter over medium heat. Add 60g of all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until a light golden roux forms.
Prepare Sauce
Gradually pour in 700ml of whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Add Cheeses
Add the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, dry mustard powder, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
Combine & Bake
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
► For an even creamier cheese sauce, use room temperature cheeses and add them slowly to the milk.
► If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
► Experiment with other cheese varieties; smoked gouda or provolone also work wonderfully.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 300g | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal | 1140 kcal |
| Protein | 15g | 45g |
| Fat | 22g | 66g |
| Carbohydrate | 30g | 90g |
| Fiber | 1g | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g | 12g |