Description
A delicious and creamy Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni Gratin that is perfect for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and keep stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the thickened sauce.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, blue cheese, and half of the Parmesan until everything is melted and creamy.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, then top with the remaining Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni Gratin, cheesy pasta bake, macaroni and cheese