Description
A rich and creamy Four Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe combining Havarti, Parmesan, cheddar, and extra sharp cheddar cheeses. This comforting casserole features a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping and is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni and Cheese
- 1 lb pasta
- 3/4 stick butter (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 Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and olive oil. Stir well to evenly coat the crumbs with the oil and cheese. Set this mixture aside for topping later.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Once the liquid is warm, add half of the shredded cheeses, whisking occasionally until melted and smooth. Then add the remaining cheese, continuing to whisk until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the cooked pasta into an ungreased 2-quart baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture on top to create a crunchy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the topping is lightly browned and the cheese is bubbly throughout.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately for the best creamy and crunchy texture experience.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor rather than pre-shredded cheese.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- The dish can be prepared ahead to the assembly step, then refrigerated and baked just before serving (add 5 extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold).
- Substitute gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
