Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: A Creamy and Comforting Classic
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsWhy You'll Love This RecipeEmbark on a culinary journey to the heart of Southern comfort food with our mouthwatering……
Guide or Summary：
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Southern comfort food with our mouthwatering Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese recipe. This classic dish, infused with the rich flavors of three distinct cheeses, promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a world of creamy, indulgent bliss.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your macaroni and cheese is perfectly baked to golden perfection.
2. **Cook the Macaroni:** While the oven heats up, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
3. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
4. **Add Liquids and Seasonings:** Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. **Combine Cheeses:** Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Next, add the shredded Gruyère cheese and Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until all the cheese is incorporated and the sauce is creamy and rich.
6. **Season to Taste:** Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little of the reserved pasta water.
7. **Combine Macaroni and Sauce:** Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated. Ensure that the pasta is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
8. **Bake the Macaroni and Cheese:** Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top.
9. **Bake until Bubbly and Golden:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. **Rest and Serve:** Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set slightly.
11. **Serve:** Serve the Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped chives if desired. Enjoy this comforting classic with a side of green beans or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a rich and indulgent twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of creamy cheeses and savory seasonings creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a decadent side for a holiday feast, this Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and golden brown topping, this dish is a true testament to the power of comfort food.
Incorporate this Southern Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese recipe into your meal rotation, and you'll have a reliable go-to dish that will never fail to satisfy your cravings for something warm, comforting, and utterly delicious.