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If you’re a fan of rich, creamy comfort food, 3 cheese mac and cheese is a dish that you should definitely try. This comforting mix of tender pasta and a smooth cheese sauce makes an excellent weeknight meal, family dinner, lunch option, holiday dish, and casual get-together.
The beauty of three-cheese mac and cheese is that it can be made in so many ways. You can make it from scratch with your favorite cheeses. Or you can make it even more easily with boxed macaroni and add extra cheese, seasonings, and toppings.
As you follow this guide, we will walk through how to make an easy three-cheese mac and cheese recipe, along with some helpful tips and variations. You will also find four convenient Amazon-listed pasta products that you can use for different styles of cheesy pasta meals.
What Is 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese?
Three-cheese mac and cheese is a creamy pasta recipe that is made by combining cooked macaroni with a cheese sauce of three cheeses.
Adding a mix of three cheeses makes the dish more interesting than using just one cheese. A firm sharp cheddar may bring out a deeper flavor, while a mild melting cheese brings out a creamy flavor. A parmesan or another aged cheese can help to finish off the cheese sauce and add a savory bite to the dish.
A basic homemade recipe will have a mixture of butter and flour to begin with, milk, and a combination of shredded cheeses.
You can also make a faster version of three-cheese mac and cheese by using prepared macaroni and cheese products and adding your favorite cheese combinations.
Why Make Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese?
There are many reasons why this cheesy pasta dish has become so popular. It is a simple dish that can be made from a few ingredients and is easy to customize. It can also serve as a main course or a side. Macaroni and cheese can also be made on the stovetop for a richer creamier consistency or baked in the oven with some breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
You can also get creative and add in your favorite vegetables, shredded cooked chicken, beans, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients for Homemade 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese
- For a basic homemade three-cheese mac and cheese recipe, you will find the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs, optional
Extra shredded cheese for topping, optional
The three cheeses can vary according to your preference. Other cheeses that you can use include cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, gouda, and Parmesan.
How to Make 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook it to al dente or slightly firm.
- This works best since the pasta will continue to cook if you are going to bake it for the three-cheese mac and cheese.
- Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk together for about a minute.
- Slowly add in the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens into a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Add the Three Cheeses
- Reduce the heat and add in the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Whisk until the cheeses melt and the consistency becomes smooth.
- Avoid cooking on very high heat since this can result in an oily and lumpy cheese sauce.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
- Add in the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Taste test the sauce before you add too much salt since the cheese can already have a significant amount of salt in it.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add in the cooked macaroni and continue to stir.
- Once everything is well combined, you can stop and serve the mac and cheese.
- This would be considered a stovetop version of the three-cheese mac and cheese.
Step 6: Bake It If Desired
- For a baked three-cheese mac and cheese, transfer the cooked macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add in extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top of the mixture. Bake it according to your recipe until the cheese is melted and the topping has browned slightly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese Dinner (7.25 oz Box) (Pack of 6) is a convenient boxed macaroni option for those that want a familiar cheesy pasta meal.
The six-box pack is useful for keeping multiple boxes in the pantry. You can prepare the macaroni according to the package directions and enjoy it as-is, or use it as a base for your own three-cheese creation.
How to Turn Kraft Mac and Cheese Into a Three-Cheese Dish
Prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions.
Once the macaroni is cooked, add in extra shredded cheeses such as:
Cheddar
Monterey Jack
Parmesan
The combination of cheeses in the box and extra cheeses can create a richer homemade-style three-cheese mac and cheese dish.
You can also add in black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
For a baked version, you can transfer the macaroni into a baking dish, add in extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake it until the top is browned.
Annie’s Shells and Real Aged Cheddar
Annie’s Shells and Real Aged Cheddar, Made with Organic Pasta and Real Cheese, 6 oz (Pack of 24) is another convenient option for cheesy pasta lovers.
This product uses shell-shaped pasta and real aged cheddar. The shell shape works particularly well with creamy sauces since the sauce can coat the pasta and collect inside the shells.
The 24-pack is ideal for those that want to have multiple boxes of macaroni and cheese in their pantry.
Creating a Three-Cheese Version
Prepare Annie’s Shells and Real Aged Cheddar according to the package directions.
Once prepared, you can also add in extra cheeses to create a three-cheese version. Try adding in the following combination:
Mozzarella
Monterey Jack
Parmesan
Add the cheese while the pasta is hot and stir gently until melted.
You can also add in steamed broccoli, peas, spinach, or roasted vegetables to make a more varied meal.
Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original
Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original | Microwavable | 8 Cups | 2.39 oz | Pack of 2 is designed around individual macaroni servings.
The microwavable feature makes it perfect for when you want a quick cheesy pasta meal without having to make a large pot of macaroni.
The microwavable portion is also shell-shaped and works well with a creamy cheese sauce.
Easy Three-Cheese Upgrade
Once you have prepared the Velveeta shells, you can also add in a small amount of your favorite shredded cheese.
A simple combination can be:
Cheddar
Mozzarella
Parmesan
Stir the cheeses into the warm pasta until melted.
Since the cups are individually portioned, this can be a helpful option when you want to prepare a quick serving rather than a large family-style dish.
Banza Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta
Banza Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta, Variety Pack 20g Protein | Lower Carb | High Fiber | High Protein | Plant Based Pasta | 8 oz (Pack of 12) offers another option for making a cheesy dish.
Banza is made using chickpeas and is marketed as gluten-free and plant-based. The 12-pack provides you with multiple boxes of pasta that you can use for home-cooked meals.
You can make a cheese sauce using milk, butter, and your favorite cheeses.
Using a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan works well for a three-cheese-style mac and cheese.
Once you have cooked the chickpea pasta, you can combine it with the cheese sauce.
Using chickpea pasta may have a different texture than traditional wheat pasta. Therefore, be sure to follow the package cooking instructions and avoid overcooking it.
Best Cheese Combinations for Mac and Cheese
The cheese combination that you select can have a significant impact on the flavor and texture of your mac and cheese.
Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Parmesan
This is a balanced combination for a three-cheese-style dish.
Cheddar provides a familiar cheese flavor, Monterrey Jack provides a smooth melting quality, and Parmesan provides savory quality.
Cheddar, Mozzarella and Parmesan
This combination is perfect for anyone that wants a creamy and stretchy cheese texture.
Mozzarella melts smoothly, cheddar has stronger flavor, and Parmesan adds savory notes.
Gouda, Cheddar and Parmesan
Gouda can be a richer alternative to Cheddar. Cheddar maintains the traditional mac and cheese flavor while Parmesan adds savory notes.
Tips for Making Creamy 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook pasta until just tender.
Overcooked pasta can become too soft and will not hold up to the hot cheese sauce.
2. Shred Cheese Yourself
For homemade mac and cheese, freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly than some pre-shredded cheeses.
3. Keep the Heat Moderate
Cheese sauce generally does not require high heat.
4. Add Cheese Gradually
Instead of adding all the cheese at once, add it gradually so that you can stir until each addition has melted.
5. Don’t Forget Seasoning
The addition of a little garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, or mustard powder can add another dimension of flavor.
6. Add a Crispy Topping
Mixed breadcrumbs and melted butter make an easy topping for baked mac and cheese.
Easy Variations
One of the best aspects about mac and cheese is the ability to customize it.
Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Add in steamed broccoli to the finished pasta.
Spicy Mac and Cheese
For a spicy mac and cheese, add a little crushed red pepper, paprika, or your preferred seasoning.
Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese
Add in garlic powder and dried herbs such as parsley or Italian seasoning.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, add in additional cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until the top is golden and bubbling.
Vegetable Mac and Cheese
You can add in peas, spinach, roasted cauliflower, sweet corn, or other vegetables.
Chicken Mac and Cheese
Adding in cooked chicken can also transform mac and cheese into a more substantial meal.
How to Store Leftover Mac and Cheese
If you have any leftovers, be sure to cool them before putting them in an airtight container. You should refrigerate your leftovers as soon as possible and follow safe food-storage practices. You can also reheat mac and cheese on the stove or in the microwave but be cautioned against repeatedly reheating the same portion.
If the sauce has gotten thick, you can also add a splash of milk when reheating. Reheat mac and cheese gently and stir occasionally until it is heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make 3 cheese mac and cheese with boxed macaroni?
Yes. Boxed macaroni can be used as a convenient base. After preparation, you can add in extra shredded cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
What are the three best cheeses for mac and cheese?
There isn’t one required combination. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan are a practical combination since they produce different flavors and textures.
Can I bake three-cheese mac and cheese?
Yes. Prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, add in additional cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake it until the topping is lightly browned.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Broccoli, peas, spinach, cauliflower, and sweet corn can all be added to mac and cheese.
Can I use shell pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely. Shell pasta works particularly well with creamy cheese sauces since the sauce can coat the shells.
Is homemade mac and cheese difficult?
No. A basic homemade version only requires pasta, butter, flour, milk, and cheese. Once you learn how to make a basic cheese sauce, you can easily customize it.
Final Thoughts
3 cheese mac and cheese is a versatile comfort-food recipe that can be prepared in many different ways. A homemade version lets you choose your favorite cheeses and seasonings while convenient products can make preparation much faster.
The Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese Dinner can be customized with extra cheese and seasoning. Annie’s Shells and Real Aged Cheddar offers shell-shaped organic pasta with real aged cheddar. Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original provides individual microwavable portions for convenient preparation while Banza Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta offers a chickpea-based pasta option that can be paired with a homemade cheese sauce.
Whether you prefer a quick stovetop meal or a baked macaroni dish with a crispy topping, combining different cheeses with tender pasta gives you plenty of opportunities to create your own favorite mac and cheese recipe.
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