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Quick Baked 3-Cheese Mac and Cheese with Garlic Panko

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A quick and easy baked mac and cheese with three cheeses and a crispy garlic panko topping, perfect for weeknight comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni for 1 minute less than al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese and whisk until melted. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella, whisking until smooth.
  6. Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and stir until coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in panko and Parmesan, cooking until golden brown (2-3 minutes). Stir in parsley if using.
  10. Sprinkle the panko mixture over the mac and cheese. Bake for 15-18 minutes until bubbly and golden. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Grate your own cheese for a smooth sauce. Cook pasta 1 minute less than al dente. Toast panko separately for best crunch. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, three cheese, garlic panko, quick dinner, comfort food

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