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Golden baked macaroni and cheese in a white dish on a wooden board, with parsley and a wooden spoon nearby.
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Four Cheese Mac and Cheese

Creamy four cheese mac and cheese baked with Colby Jack, cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked gouda. Comfort food with a golden, bubbly crust.
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main, Pasta, Side
Cuisine American
Keyword four cheese mac and cheese
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Bake Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 7276kcal
Author Ksenia Prints

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Whisk, wooden spoon, and grater

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Macaroni pasta
  • Cheeses
  • 1 lb Colby Jack
  • ½ Mozzarella
  • ½ lb Sharp Cheddar
  • ½ lb Smoked Gouda
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package directions.
  • Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
  • Slowly pour in evaporated milk while whisking, followed by the heavy cream.
  • Stir in chicken bouillon, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Add in half of each cheese (reserving the other half for topping). Stir until completely melted and smooth.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Combine & Layer

  • In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
  • Spread mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden, bubbly, and lightly crisped.
  • Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra golden cheesy edges.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  • Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets slightly. Perfect as a main dish or cozy side!

Nutrition

Calories: 7276kcal | Carbohydrates: 426g | Protein: 313g | Fat: 481g | Saturated Fat: 296g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 19g | Monounsaturated Fat: 127g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1509mg | Sodium: 6596mg | Potassium: 3523mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 65g | Vitamin A: 16157IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 7540mg | Iron: 13mg