Save to Pinterest Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Four-Cheese Mac & Cheese Bake. This creamy pasta dish is coated in a decadent blend of sharp cheddar, Gouda, mozzarella, and blue cheese, then baked to golden perfection for a rich, savory meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are looking for a weeknight family dinner or a decadent side dish, this mac and cheese stands out with its complex flavor profile and irresistible bubbling finish. It's an American classic elevated by gourmet cheese selections.
Ingredients
- → Pasta
- 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni or short pasta
- → Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 100 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 80 g (3/4 cup) Gouda cheese, shredded
- 80 g (3/4 cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 40 g (1/3 cup) blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- → Topping
- 40 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 30 g (1/4 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Step 2
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 4
- Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Step 5
- Lower heat and add cheddar, Gouda, mozzarella, and blue cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard if using.
- Step 6
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Step 7
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 8
- In a small bowl, mix panko with melted butter. Sprinkle over the pasta, then top with remaining cheddar.
- Step 9
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a perfectly smooth cheese sauce, ensure you whisk the milk in gradually to avoid any lumps. Cooking the pasta just to al dente is crucial, as it will continue to soften as it bakes in the oven. Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the sauce to thicken slightly for easier serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily modify this dish by swapping the blue cheese for extra cheddar if you prefer a milder taste. To add more substance, try stirring in crispy cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a savory twist.
Serviervorschläge
This rich and decadent bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to cut through the cheesiness. For an elevated experience, serve it alongside a glass of chilled Chardonnay.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this savory Four-Cheese Mac & Cheese Bake as the ultimate comfort meal, bringing a touch of gourmet decadence to your table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni or similar short pasta shapes hold the cheese sauce well and bake evenly in this dish.
- → Can I substitute any cheeses?
You can replace blue cheese with extra cheddar for a milder flavor or mix other melting cheeses you prefer.
- → How do I achieve a golden crust?
Sprinkling panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and extra shredded cheddar on top before baking creates a crispy golden crust.
- → Is nutmeg necessary in the sauce?
Nutmeg is optional but adds subtle warmth that enhances the cheese sauce's depth.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it; bake right before serving for best texture and warmth.