Four Cheese Baked Macaroni


How to Make Four Cheese Baked Macaroni

1. Prepare the Pasta

  • Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Drain and set aside, tossing with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheeses (reserving a small amount for topping). Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated.

4. Assemble the Dish

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.

5. Bake to Perfection

  • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
  • For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle. Garnish with paprika or fresh herbs if desired.