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One Pot Three Cheese Macaroni Bake – Easy & Cheesy Meal

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This One Pot Three Cheese Macaroni Bake is a creamy, dreamy comfort food that comes together in just one pot, making it the ultimate weeknight meal. With three glorious cheeses, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small chopped onion
  • 2–3 cloves minced garlic
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound dry elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup grated smoked gouda or gruyere cheese
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup additional cheddar cheese or breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 small chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth into the pot with the aromatics.
  5. Add 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together well.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom.
  7. Once the liquid base is simmering, add 1 pound of dry elbow macaroni directly to the pot.
  8. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid and doesn't stick together.
  9. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes.
  10. Remove the pot from the heat and add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar, 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack, and 1 cup of your chosen third cheese.
  11. Stir continuously until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  12. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish if not using an oven-safe pot.
  13. Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheddar or a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  14. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  15. Let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Grate your own cheese for the creamiest results. Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Consider adding a touch of acidity with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.

Find it online: https://crumella.com/one-pot-three-cheese-macaroni-bake-easy-cheesy-meal/