Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 500kcal
Picture this: a chilly evening in early fall, the kind that makes you want to cozy up with a blanket and indulge in some hearty comfort food. Nothing pairs better with a warm movie night than a generous serving of baked 4 cheese macaroni and cheese. You settle in with your loved ones, and that golden, creamy pasta dish beckons. It’s hard to beat—it’s cheesy, comforting, and always brings smiles.
Let’s get one thing straight; macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. For many, it recalls childhood memories of lazy days or family dinners filled with laughter. This baked version is a twist on the classic, bringing in a quartet of cheeses that elevate this dish from simple to spectacular.
This dish consists of pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from four delicious types of cheese. It’s baked until golden on top, creating a crispy crust that complements the gooey cheese underneath. It’s a delightful mix that's hard to resist.
The flavor profile of this baked mac and cheese is like a warm hug on a plate. You have the sharpness of cheddar mixing with the smokiness of gouda, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the subtle tang of white cheddar. Each bite delivers layers of rich flavor with an inevitable crunch from the baked top.
What’s not to love? This dish is rich, decadent, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for gatherings—easy to make, easy to serve, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this baked mac and cheese impresses without being complicated.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight:
- 5 cups large macaroni pasta, dry/uncooked
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 16 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz shredded gouda cheese
- 8 oz shredded white cheddar cheese
- 16 oz block mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nutty flavor)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a touch of warmth)
Making baked mac and cheese is a straightforward process, but it does take a bit of love and attention. Here’s how you can create this cheesy treat step-by-step.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once at a rolling boil, drop in your macaroni. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it—it needs that starch to help bind the sauce later on. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.
In a large cooking pan, heat up your unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic once it’s melted, stirring frequently so that it doesn’t burn. This part smells heavenly!
After the garlic is fragrant (just a minute or so), sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir the mixture constantly until it’s well combined and looks slightly golden. This roux is essential for achieving a creamy texture.
Carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, constantly stirring to combine everything smoothly. This mixture should start thickening after a few minutes—watch that it doesn’t clump!
Once the sauce is blended and creamy, sprinkle in oregano, ground thyme, garlic powder, and sea salt. These spices infuse so much flavor! Then, add the shredded sharp cheddar, gouda, and white cheddar cheeses, stirring until everything is melted and creamy. Don’t be shy about whipping out a whisk here—it can really help mix everything together!
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over your bowl of macaroni. Toss in the cubed mozzarella and mix gently until every noodle is coated in that dreamy sauce.
Grab your trusty casserole dish (the one that can handle the heat!). Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Just before you bake, sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan on top for a golden crust.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the cheesy goodness bake for about 25 minutes. You'll know it’s done when the top is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the anticipation will be worth it!
- Use Sharp Cheeses: For a deeper flavor, opt for sharp or extra-sharp cheeses. They really elevate the taste!
- Add Proteins: Consider stirring in grilled chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and just bake when you’re ready to eat.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick!
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of freshness.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for that original baked texture, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating can help retain that creamy consistency.
- Pasta Substitute:Penne or fusilli can be used instead of macaroni for a slightly different shape.
- Chicken Broth Substitute: Use vegetable broth if you're looking for a vegetarian option.
- Cream Alternative:Half-and-half or even coconut cream can work if you want a lighter option.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you can't find a specific cheese, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra flavor.
- Garlic Powder Substitute: If you’re out of garlic powder, use fresh minced garlic, at least 1-2 cloves.
Each serving of this four-cheese baked macaroni contains approximately 500 calories, with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, thanks to the cheeses and cream. It’s indulgent, but also packed with a satisfying punch. Enjoy it as an occasional treat to keep it balanced.
- Salad on the Side: Pair with a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a healthy touch.
- Grilled Chicken: For a heartier meal, add a grilled chicken breast on the side.
- Crusty Bread: Everyone loves to scoop mac and cheese with a warm piece of garlic bread.
- Pickles or Relish: Consider serving with a side of pickles or relish for a tangy contrast.
- Different Pasta Shapes:Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can easily replace regular macaroni.
- Butter Alternative: Use olive oil or plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- Cream Cheese: For added creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese.
- Different Herbs: Basil or thyme can stand in for oregano if you prefer their flavors.
- Other Cheeses: Feel free to mix in cream-style cheese, or even a bit of blue cheese for a unique twist!
This baked 4 cheese macaroni and cheese recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and fills your belly. With its creamy richness and gooey flavor, it elevates gatherings and makes weeknight dinners feel special. Play around with add-ins and variations to make it your own, but rest assured, it’s hard to go wrong with so much cheese! Get ready to serve up heaping plates of joy!
Picture this: a chilly evening in early fall, the kind that makes you want to cozy up with a blanket and indulge in some hearty comfort food. Nothing pairs better with a warm movie night than a generous serving of baked 4 cheese macaroni and cheese. You settle in with your loved ones, and that golden, creamy pasta dish beckons. It’s hard to beat—it’s cheesy, comforting, and always brings smiles.
Servings 8
- Use Sharp Cheeses: For a deeper flavor, opt for sharp or extra-sharp cheeses. They really elevate the taste!
- Add Proteins: Consider stirring in grilled chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and just bake when you’re ready to eat.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick!- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of freshness
I'm Natasha Dunford, a registered dietitian from Rochelle Park, NJ, and the creator of Simple Easy Meals. My passion is helping busy individuals create delicious, nutritious meals that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Through my blog, I aim to simplify meal prep and inspire confidence in the kitchen!