Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole

If you’re craving something comforting, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, this Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole is exactly what you need. It combines the rich flavors of cheddar, mozzarella, feta, and Parmesan into a creamy, baked pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a little extra comfort food in your life. The blend of cheeses creates a depth of flavor that is both familiar and exciting, while the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of texture to every bite. Trust me—this recipe is going to be your new go-to for cheesy pasta goodness.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole hits all the right notes for a crowd-pleaser. First, it’s cheesy—like, seriously cheesy—which means it appeals to kids and adults alike. The combination of four different cheeses brings a perfect balance of sharpness, creaminess, and tanginess that keeps every bite interesting. Unlike a traditional mac and cheese, the addition of feta adds a subtle salty brightness, while the mozzarella melts beautifully to give that gooey, stringy texture we all love.

The baked breadcrumb topping provides a golden, crispy contrast that makes this dish feel special and homemade. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and bake just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. If you love dishes like the Mac And Cheese Style Pasta Bake, you’ll adore this casserole’s cheesy, comforting charm.

What You’ll Need

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni – the perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy cheese sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – to create a rich roux for the sauce
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – thickens the cheese sauce
• 2 cups milk – whole milk preferred for creaminess
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds subtle savory depth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic with mild sweetness
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp and flavorful
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and stretchy
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese – adds tangy saltiness
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – nutty and savory finish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to season the sauce and pasta
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – a gentle kick of spice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – optional, for subtle heat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – for that crispy topping
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – freshens and brightens the dish

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot – to boil the elbow macaroni
• Medium saucepan – to make the cheese sauce
• Whisk – to blend the roux and milk smoothly
• Baking dish (about 8×8 inches) – to bake the casserole
• Mixing spoon or spatula – for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts

Build Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. You want the pasta to be slightly undercooked because it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a smooth base for your sauce.

Step 3: Create the cheese sauce

Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Step 4: Add the cheeses

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, feta, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated with cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Assemble and top

Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into your baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the chopped fresh parsley, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole. This topping will crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute cheeses with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan-style shreds. Nutritional yeast can add cheesy flavor as well.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling; it should still have a firm bite.
• Mix the cheeses thoroughly into the sauce to avoid clumps and ensure even melt.
• If you want a bit more crunch, toss the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling on top.
• Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, but you can substitute with chives or basil if preferred.
• To make this dish more filling, consider stirring in cooked vegetables like peas or roasted broccoli before baking.
• This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store leftover Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain creaminess.

Quick Q&A

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you prefer a milder cheese, goat cheese or ricotta can be excellent substitutes that still provide creaminess and a tangy note.

Is it possible to add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas before baking to make it a heartier main course.

How can I make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?

Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter or a little olive oil before sprinkling on top. This helps the crumbs brown evenly and become wonderfully crunchy.

Reader Favorites

• Mac And Cheese Style Pasta Bake – Another cheesy baked pasta dish that’s a family favorite.
• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – The classic creamy mac and cheese everyone loves.

Final Bite

This Baked Four-Cheese Macaroni Casserole is a celebration of cheese in every comforting, creamy, and crispy bite. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings and impress your dinner guests. Whether served as a main course or a side, this casserole promises to become an instant favorite in your recipe collection. Dive in and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

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