Imagine a creamy, decadent mac and cheese that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Three-Cheese Stovetop Macaroni isn't just another pasta dish – it's a symphony of melted cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan that promises to elevate your comfort food game to delicious new heights. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare your cheese mixture. In a separate large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes smooth and starts to shimmer.
- Gradually pour the milk into the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth base. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture warm gently.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, shaking off excess water. Return the pasta to the original pot.
- Slowly add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the warm milk and butter mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring gently to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Let the macaroni and cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Always use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a silky-smooth texture.
- For extra richness, consider using whole milk or even a splash of heavy cream.
- Don't overcook the pasta – aim for al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce after cooking.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out and enhance creaminess.
- For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and develop deeper flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
