If you are craving something creamy, cheesy, and absolutely comforting, this Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. With a luscious blend of Havarti, Parmesan, cheddar, and extra sharp cheddar cheeses all melting together atop perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that feels both indulgent and homey. It’s a classic comfort food elevated by the crunchy, golden panko breadcrumb topping and a silky, velvety cheese sauce that you’ll want to dive into again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in creating that irresistible balance of creamy texture, sharp flavor, and crispy topping. From the butter and flour that build the sauce’s structure, to the rich mix of cheeses that give it character, every component is essential.
- 1 lb pasta: Use elbow macaroni or your favorite shape that holds the cheese sauce well.
- 3/4 stick of butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for the sauce base.
- 2 Tablespoons all purpose flour: This thickens your cheese sauce to a silky consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Provides creaminess while keeping it light.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts the decadence and silkiness of the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming spice.
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced): Infuses a subtle aromatic depth to the dish.
- 4 oz Havarti cheese (shredded): Smooth and buttery, it helps create a mellow cheese experience.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan: Offers a nutty, salty punch that brightens up the sauce.
- 8 oz cheddar cheese (shredded): Brings classic sharpness and melty texture.
- 8 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Adds a bolder, tangier cheese flavor.
- 3 Tablespoons Parmesan Cheese (for topping): Creates a crisp, golden crust.
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs: Provides a wonderful crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Infuses a hint of earthiness and color.
- 1 Tablespoon Olive oil: Helps toast the breadcrumbs perfectly crisp without burning.
How to Make Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s ready once your cheese sauce is prepared. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente—this ensures it won’t get mushy after baking. Drain and set it aside while you move on to the delicious cheese sauce and topping.
Step 2: Make the Perfect Crisp Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko bread crumbs with 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and olive oil. Stir this mixture well. This topping is your future golden, crunchy crown for the mac and cheese, adding a playful texture contrast that makes every bite exciting.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously so the sauce stays silky and lump-free. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic for that extra layer of flavor. Once the sauce is warmed, stir in half of your cheese blend, whisking until melted and smooth, then fold in the remaining cheese until fully incorporated. You’ll end up with a rich, smooth, luscious cheese sauce that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 4: Combine, Top, and Bake
Place your cooked pasta in an ungreased 2-quart baking dish, then pour the velvety cheese sauce evenly over the pasta, making sure every noodle gets a cheesy coating. Finally, sprinkle the prepared panko breadcrumb topping over everything. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the breadcrumbs are lightly browned and the cheese sauce is bubbling joyfully beneath the crust.
How to Serve Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten this rich dish, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a slight fresh note. Some flaky sea salt on top after baking can also deepen the flavors and give a little pleasant crunch.
Side Dishes
This Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, lightly dressed salads or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Try it alongside steamed green beans, a tangy coleslaw, or even some garlic roasted broccoli for a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Make this dish your own by baking it in individual ramekins for charming single servings or layering it with cooked bacon or caramelized onions for added texture and flavor. You could also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers before baking to introduce exciting new dimensions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, too! To keep that perfect cheesy goodness intact, transfer the baked dish or individual portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, reheat in a conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through to help maintain the crisp topping and avoid a soggy texture. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the breadcrumb crust a bit, so adjust accordingly based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While the combination in this recipe is designed for a balanced flavor, feel free to swap in cheeses like Gruyere, fontina, or mozzarella depending on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in this recipe?
Heavy cream enriches the sauce and creates that luxurious mouthfeel, but you can substitute it with additional milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the texture may be slightly less creamy.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Traditional elbow macaroni is classic, but this recipe works well with other pasta shapes like cavatappi, shells, or penne that hold onto the sauce nicely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux. Just be mindful to check that your breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.
How do I get the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
Make sure the olive oil is evenly mixed with the panko and Parmesan so the crumbs toast evenly. Also, baking uncovered allows the topping to brown nicely. For an even crispier finish, you can broil for a minute or two at the end of baking—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is a celebration of everything we love about comfort food: creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit crunchy on top. It’s a dish that invites slow, happy bites and seconds without guilt. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect recipe to bring joy to your table, this is it. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become an instant family favorite!
Print
Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic baked to golden perfection. Featuring a rich blend of Havarti, Parmesan, cheddar, and extra sharp cheddar cheeses, combined with a crunchy panko topping, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The sauce is made on the stovetop, then baked in the oven until bubbly, creating a luscious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese
- 1 lb pasta
- 3/4 stick butter (about 6 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz Havarti cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Topping
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and olive oil. Stir well to blend the ingredients and set the mixture aside to use as the crunchy topping later.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, then add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Warm the mixture gently until it’s heated through but not boiling. Add half of the shredded cheeses and whisk until melted and smooth. Then, add the remaining cheese and continue whisking until the sauce is creamy and fully melted.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the cooked pasta into an ungreased 2-quart baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the prepared panko and Parmesan topping evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned and the cheese sauce is bubbly. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- For best texture, do not overcook pasta before baking; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- You can substitute milk with 2% for a lighter version, although whole milk and cream yield richer flavor.
- Ensure the baking dish is not greased to allow the crispy topping to form perfectly.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
