Ultimate Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni: A Thanksgiving Side Dish to Savor

Simply Cheese Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 2 cups Mild Cheddar, shredded
• 1 cup Colby, shredded
• 1 cup Havarti, shredded
• 1 cup Mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (for topping)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it turns golden.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
   • Lower the heat, and add the shredded Mild Cheddar, Colby, and Havarti, a little at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.

4. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta, stirring to coat. Then, fold in the shredded Mozzarella.

5. Assemble the Dish:

   • Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
   • In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the macaroni cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy Simply Cheese’s rich, creamy four-cheese delight as a Thanksgiving favorite!