Description
This Creamy Four Cheese Mac and Cheese delivers rich, velvety comfort in every bite. A perfect blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s smooth, flavorful, and indulgent. With its creamy texture and golden baked topping, this dish is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Pasta Base:
1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni (or short pasta like cavatappi or penne)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
Cheese Sauce:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60 g)
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30 g)
3 cups whole milk (720 ml), warmed
1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Four Cheese Blend:
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (200 g)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (100 g)
1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded (100 g)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
Optional Topping (for baked version):
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (50 g)
2 tablespoons melted butter
¼ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking constantly. Add heavy cream and continue whisking for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Melt the Cheeses
Lower heat to medium-low. Add cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan one at a time, stirring after each addition until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated. If too thick, add a splash of milk.
Step 7: Bake (Optional)
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch dish. Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika; sprinkle on top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for smooth melting.
Slightly undercook pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
Warm milk prevents lumps in the sauce.
For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream before serving.
Add-ins like bacon, truffle oil, or veggies can elevate flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop or Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: Creamy Four Cheese Mac and Cheese, Easy Mac and Cheese, Homemade Cheese Pasta, Baked Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food