The Ultimate Four Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Ultimate Four Cheese Mac and Cheese features a creamy blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Gouda cheeses for a rich, satisfying dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or potlucks, it combines a silky cheese sauce with tender pasta, baked to golden perfection with an optional crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Equipment
- Equipment & Appliances
- Casserole dish
- Non-stick saucepan
- Cheese grater
- Whisk
- Colander
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 16 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup gouda cheese shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika optional
- Panko bread crumbs optional, for topping
Instructions
Instructions:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine sauce with pasta and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Top with panko bread crumbs if desired and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories Per Serving:
- Approx. 500 calories
- Nutritional Info (per serving):
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Notes
Recipe Tips
Cheese Quality Matters: For the best results, use freshly shredded cheeses instead of pre-shredded, as they melt more smoothly.
Creaminess Tip: Adding a bit of extra heavy cream or milk when making the cheese sauce ensures a smoother, creamier consistency.
Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for a little extra kick.
Topping Variations: Consider mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a bit of Parmesan before adding on top for extra crispiness.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the dish's creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
Cheese Quality Matters: For the best results, use freshly shredded cheeses instead of pre-shredded, as they melt more smoothly.
Creaminess Tip: Adding a bit of extra heavy cream or milk when making the cheese sauce ensures a smoother, creamier consistency.
Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for a little extra kick.
Topping Variations: Consider mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a bit of Parmesan before adding on top for extra crispiness.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the dish's creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.