Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Four Cheese Classic Mac, a creamy, cheesy delight that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul! Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety sauce made from four irresistible cheeses. This mouthwatering dish is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try! Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue cooking and stirring for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and integrated into the sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top and fold gently to distribute.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of milk to reach desired consistency.
- Transfer to serving dishes and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your elbow macaroni is cooked to perfection, remember to salt your boiling water generously. This enhances the flavor of the pasta and helps it maintain its al dente texture.
- Smooth Sauce: When making the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth roux is the key to a creamy cheese sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! While cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and blue cheese create a delightful blend, you can substitute with your favorites like gouda or fontina for a unique twist.
- Adjust Consistency: If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than desired, simply add a splash of milk while stirring over low heat until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your Four Cheese Classic Mac immediately after cooking. The cheese sauce is at its creamiest when fresh, making every bite a heavenly delight!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg