Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Four Cheese Mac n Cheese with Garlic Sage Breadcrumbs! This decadent dish combines the creamy richness of four different cheeses with the aromatic crunch of garlic sage breadcrumbs, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of cheesy goodness that will warm your heart. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken and becomes smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and blue cheese. Stir until all cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring every pasta piece is coated with the cheese sauce.
- In a separate small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with chopped sage and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the sage breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures your pasta retains a perfect bite!
- Whisk the Roux: When making the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
- Mix Cheeses for Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! Adding a touch of smoked gouda or pepper jack can give your mac and cheese an exciting twist.
- Breadcrumb Texture: For an extra crunchy topping, consider toasting the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a bit of butter before sprinkling them on top.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra sage leaves on top before serving can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
