Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is a warm and comforting dish that many people love. This recipe is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you need a cozy night in. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make.
Why You Will Love This Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
This Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleaser. It combines four delicious cheeses for an extra cheesy experience. The recipe is easy to follow and uses basic ingredients, making it great for beginners. You can throw it all in a slow cooker and forget about it, which is perfect for busy days. The result is creamy and comforting, ideal for any meal or occasion.
How to Make Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
Making this dish is straightforward. You’ll cook the pasta and then blend everything together in a slow cooker. The slow cooking makes the cheese melt perfectly, creating a smooth and creamy texture. This method allows you to enjoy a rich flavor without spending much time in the kitchen.
What You Need
To make Four Cheese Mac and Cheese, here is what you’ll need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan)
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a slow cooker, melt the butter, then stir in the flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni and mix until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until creamy.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
How to Serve Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
You can serve this delicious dish in many ways. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You might also enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or roasted meats. Feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese or crispy breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
How to Store Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to three days. If you want to freeze this dish, place it in a safe freezer container. When reheating, you can use the microwave or warm it in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk to return some creaminess.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure to stir the cheese well to help it melt evenly.
- You can use any cheese you like, just keep it to four types for a cheesy balance.
- Don’t skip the garlic and onion powder; they add great flavor.
- If it’s too thick after cooking, stir in a bit more milk.
- Keep an eye on it while it cooks to avoid sticking.
Variations & Swaps
- Feel free to swap out cheeses based on what you have. Cream cheese can make it extra creamy.
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can also make it more filling by stirring in cooked bacon or ham.
- For a vegetarian twist, add in your favorite vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day early and keep it in the fridge before slow cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Make sure they are in an airtight container. They’ll last about a month.
How do I reheat this mac and cheese?
You can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer, like shells or penne, for a fun twist.
What should I do if it’s too thick?
If it becomes too thick after cooking, just stir in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan) Combine any four types of cheese.
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter Melted.
- 1/2 cup flour For making roux.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a slow cooker, melt the butter, then stir in the flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni and mix until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until creamy.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
