Creamy Four-Cheese Baked Mac

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy four-cheese baked mac recipe! Perfect for satisfying those cheesy cravings and impressing your family and friends. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Gouda, and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Popular questions:

• Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Yes, feel free to mix and match your favorite types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Can I add veggies or protein to this dish? Absolutely! Feel free to add diced veggies or cooked protein like chicken or bacon to enhance the dish.
• Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for the regular elbow macaroni.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
• Top with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
• For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations for a customized taste.

Expert Secrets:

• Add a touch of garlic powder or Dijon mustard for extra depth of flavor.
• Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
• For a crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking.
• Use high-quality cheeses for the best results.

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