Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey that will redefine your mac and cheese experience! This isn't just another ordinary pasta dish - this is a decadent, creamy, and absolutely irresistible four-cheese extravaganza that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine a perfect blend of rich, melted cheeses coating perfectly cooked macaroni, creating a comfort food masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or just looking for the most indulgent side dish ever, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni, 2 cups milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup crumbled blue cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese later.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
- Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled blue cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your preference.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring that all the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- If desired, you can sprinkle additional cheese on top or add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious four cheese mac and cheese!
Tips
- Choose high-quality cheeses: The key to an exceptional four cheese mac and cheese is using fresh, flavorful cheeses. Don't be afraid to splurge on good quality cheddar, mozzarella, blue cheese, and Parmesan.
- Cook pasta al dente: Remember to slightly undercook your macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce and while baking. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Whisk constantly when making the roux: This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce that will coat your pasta perfectly.
- Let it rest: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
- Optional crispy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top before baking to create a golden, crunchy crust.
- Reheat carefully: If you have leftovers, reheat slowly and add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 125mg
