Three-Cheese Pasta Bake

This comforting Mac and cheese gets an upgrade with penne pasta and three types of cheese: Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyére. Perfect for an easy yet delicious meal.

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare pasta according to package directions.

Step 2

Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half; cook, whisking constantly, for 3 to 5 minutes or until thickened.

Step 4

Stir in Cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup Gruyére cheese until smooth.

Step 5

Stir together pasta and cheese mixture; pour into a lightly greased 11 x 7-inch baking dish.

Step 6

Top with remaining 1 cup Gruyére cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Step 7

For make-ahead: Assemble without topping, chill up to 8 hours. Let stand 30 minutes at room temperature. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, then at 400°F with topping for 10 more minutes.