Three cheese Mac and Cheese: Three-Cheese Blend
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this Cavatapi three cheese and Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring a rich, creamy three-cheese blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmigiana. Perfectly cooked cavatapi noodles are enveloped in a luscious sauce for a sophisticated twist on the classic dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
• 1 pound cavatapi noodles
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Parmigiana cheese, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs and a few extra grates of Parmigiana for topping
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook cavatapi noodles until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Add mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmigiana cheeses until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained cavatapi to the pot with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the noodles thoroughly.
6. Bake (Optional): If you prefer a crispy top, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a little extra Parmigiana, and bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Serve hot as a comforting main dish or a side, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Cooking Notes
• Feel free to play with the cheese ratios or add more of your favorites. The key to great mac and cheese is making it your own. • For an added crunch, mix some chopped cooked bacon or prosciutto into the cheese sauce before baking.
This recipe elevates a classic dish with a sophisticated blend of cheeses and the unique texture of cavatapi noodles, offering a delightful twist that’s sure to impress.
