Three Cheese Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with a blend of cheddar, cottage, and American cheeses, ideal for comforting family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
- In a skillet, cook and stir butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper over medium heat until the onion is slightly tender.
- Blend in the flour and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly; remove from heat.
- Stir in the milk and heat to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Boil and stir for 1 minute; then remove from heat.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Mix in the cottage cheese and cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with slices of American cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. If you don't have American cheese, you can substitute with more cheddar or a similar melting cheese. For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cheeses from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dot'S Brownies for a delightful finish to your dinner. Consider adding crispy breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture, or use a variety of cheeses for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Cheese Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 440 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1429mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking, and you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the macaroni and cheese after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I add to the recipe for extra flavor?
For added flavor, consider mixing in ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed spinach, or diced tomatoes before baking. You can also sprinkle some smoked paprika or garlic powder into the cheese sauce for a different taste experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).