If you have a soft spot for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, you are going to adore this Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of smooth, rich cheeses blended into a velvety sauce, tender pasta dressed in that cheesy goodness, and an irresistible crunchy topping that adds the ultimate texture contrast. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a little cheesy happiness in your life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet vital to achieving that luscious balance of creamy texture and flavorful depth. From the butter that enriches the sauce to the carefully selected trio of cheeses that create layers of cheesy magic, each component plays its part in making this mac and cheese truly special.
- Mini penne pasta: Holds the cheese sauce beautifully, making every bite a cheesy delight.
- Butter: Essential for the roux and breadcrumb topping, it adds flavor and richness.
- All-purpose flour: The key to thickening the cheese sauce smoothly.
- Milk: The creamy base that binds all the cheese flavors together.
- Havarti cheese (grated): Brings a buttery, mild creaminess that melts effortlessly.
- White cheddar cheese (shredded): Adds sharp, classic mac and cheese flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Provides a nutty, salty punch both in the sauce and the crispy topping.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Pepper: A subtle heat that wakes up the cheese sauce.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory note to both sauce and topping.
- Cayenne pepper: A dash for a slight spicy kick that surprises.
- Fresh bread crumbs: The secret to that perfect golden crunch on top.
- Melted butter (for topping): Helps the breadcrumbs brown and crisp beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Boil your mini penne pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente, then drain and set aside. This foundation ensures each piece of pasta will absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Create the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt half a cup of butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one to two minutes until it starts to bubble; this step removes any raw flour taste and sets the stage for a silky sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring it down to medium heat and cook for about five minutes until the sauce thickens to a lovely, coat-the-spoon consistency.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses and Season
Once your béchamel sauce is thick, stir in the grated Havarti, shredded white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into a smooth, creamy blend. Remove the pan from heat, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper for that unexpected warmth. This combination makes your cheese sauce irresistible and layered with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. This is where the dish transforms from pasta and sauce into the comforting feast you’re craving. Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping
Mix fresh breadcrumbs with melted butter, a bit of garlic powder, and a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture creates the signature crispy, golden topping that adds fantastic texture and a burst of savory flavor. Sprinkle it liberally over the pasta for that picture-perfect finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping turns that perfect shade of golden brown and your cheese sauce bubbles happily around the edges. This final bake melts everything together and gives you that satisfying crisp crunch on top contrasted with ultra-creamy pasta beneath.
How to Serve Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives scattered on top bring a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the richness. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra grated Parmesan or cracked black pepper for that finishing touch. Don’t underestimate how much a simple garnish elevates presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Since this mac and cheese is wonderfully rich, pairing it with a light, crisp side balances the meal perfectly. Try a bright green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even some sautéed greens like spinach or kale. These sides add freshness and texture, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress up this beloved comfort dish, serve it in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for an elegant look. This also helps with portion control and makes it feel special for guests or family dinners. Another fun idea is to layer it with cooked bacon or caramelized onions for added flavor twists.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this mac and cheese for up to two months. To freeze, cool the baked dish completely, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the breadcrumb topping may lose some crispness after freezing, but the creamy inside remains delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF for about 15 to 20 minutes, uncovered, to bring back some crispiness to the topping and warm the cheesy pasta through evenly. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a microwave-safe lid, stirring halfway through to avoid cold spots, though the topping won’t be as crispy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mini penne works great for holding the sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi would also be delicious. Just make sure to adjust cooking time so the pasta is al dente.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it focuses on cheeses and pantry staples. Just be sure to use vegetarian-friendly brands of cheese and avoid any added meat ingredients in your sides or garnishes.
How spicy is the cayenne pepper in this mac and cheese?
The dash of cayenne provides just a subtle hint of warmth that deepens the flavor without making it spicy-hot. You can easily reduce or omit it depending on your spice preference.
Can I substitute the Havarti cheese with something else?
Yes, if you don’t have Havarti, you can use other mild, creamy cheeses like Monterey Jack or Fontina. They melt nicely and maintain the balance of flavors in the sauce.
What can I do to make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
Using fresh breadcrumbs and tossing them with melted butter is key. You can also toast them lightly in a pan before sprinkling on top. Baking uncovered in the oven helps the topping stay crisp as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your fork into a warm, cheesy dish that combines rich creaminess with a satisfying crunchy topping. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe as much as I do. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for creating cozy memories with family and friends. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Parmesan Breadcrumbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and cheesy Mac and Cheese recipe features a rich blend of Havarti, white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses combined with mini penne pasta. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb mixture, it’s baked to golden perfection for a comforting and delicious meal that serves eight.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) box mini penne pasta
Cheese Sauce
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 (8-oz) block Havarti cheese, grated
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 (8-oz) wedge Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Dash cayenne pepper
Topping
- 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
- 3 Tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the mini penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a roux.
- Add milk and thicken sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and well blended. Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add cheeses: Stir in the grated Havarti, shredded white cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese. Remove the sauce from heat once the cheeses have melted completely.
- Season the cheese sauce: Mix in the salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder to add flavor.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir gently to coat all the noodles evenly. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, combine the fresh bread crumbs, melted butter, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a splash of cream.
- Mini penne pasta can be replaced with elbow macaroni or any short pasta shape.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use fresh bread crumbs for best texture, or substitute with panko for extra crunch.
- Let the Mac and Cheese rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
