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Creamy Four Cheese Baked Mac Ultimate Comfort Food
Emily

Creamy Four Cheese Baked Mac

This Creamy Four Cheese Baked Mac combines mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère into a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of tender pasta. Finished in the oven until golden and bubbly, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 460
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (or penne)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère (or Swiss)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • cast iron skillet or baking dish
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a cast iron skillet or baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Toss cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, then pour into skillet.
  6. Top with extra cheese and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use penne or cavatappi for a twist on the texture. For extra crunch, top with buttered breadcrumbs before baking. You can also swap Gruyère for Swiss if preferred. Best served hot and fresh from the oven.