BAKED THREE-CHEESE MACARONI

Baked Three-Cheese Macaroni image

This legendary three-cheese mac and cheese is a must-have for big family events. My ultimate comfort food is a divine blend of cheddar, Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses. -Joan Sullivan, Gambrills, MD

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 50m

Yield 12 servings (3/4 cup each).

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) elbow macaroni or fusilli pasta
6 tablespoons butter, cubed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups 2% milk, warmed
4 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1-1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°. Cook macaroni in a 6-qt. stockpot according to package directions for al dente. Drain; return to pot., In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; whisk in warmed milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until thickened., Remove from heat; stir in Gruyere and cheddar cheeses, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add to macaroni, tossing to coat., Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Toss bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese and melted butter; sprinkle over casserole. Bake, uncovered, 30-40 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 487 calories, Fat 24g fat (14g saturated fat), Cholesterol 76mg cholesterol, Sodium 515mg sodium, Carbohydrate 41g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 27g protein.