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3 cheese mac and cheese recipe​

3 Cheese Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)

A rich and creamy mac and cheese made with cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese for a smooth, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick stovetop meal or baked with a crispy topping.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz 450 g elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar shredded
  • cups mozzarella shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese cubed
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika optional
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs optional
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking dish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in well-salted water until slightly undercooked, then drain without rinsing and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: Melt butter over medium heat, add flour, and whisk continuously until a smooth, lightly golden paste forms.
  3. Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking, cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese, then cheddar and mozzarella in batches until fully melted and smooth. Add seasonings.
  5. Combine: Add the pasta to the cheese sauce and mix gently until evenly coated and creamy.
  6. Optional Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and crispy.

Notes

  • Undercook pasta slightly to avoid mushiness
  • Do not rinse pasta; starch helps sauce stick
  • Use low heat when melting cheese
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts best
  • Add pasta water if sauce becomes too thick
3 cheese mac and cheese recipe​