- Butter or margarine (SEO keyword: "butter for cooking")
- All-purpose flour (SEO keyword: "flour thickener for mac and cheese")
- Milk (SEO keyword: "milk in mac and cheese")
- Chicken broth (SEO keyword: "chicken broth for creamy mac and cheese")
- Cornstarch (SEO keyword: "cornstarch for thickening")
- Paprika (SEO keyword: "paprika seasoning")
Steps
### 4 Cheese Mac and Cheese with Spicy Chilli Crust Recipe
#### Introduction:
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that can be elevated to new heights with this 4-cheese version, complemented by a spicy chilli crust. This dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. The combination of four different cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that's perfectly balanced with the fiery kick from the chilli crust.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 500g) macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- 3 tablespoons bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon hot chili flakes
#### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Fork or potato masher
#### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Prepare the Macaroni:**
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:**
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in 4 cups of whole milk while continuously stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Add 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1/4 cup grated Gruyère, and 1/4 cup grated Asiago. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
- Remove from heat and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Chilli Crust:**
- In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon hot chili flakes, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley.
4. **Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:**
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce in the mixing bowl. Mix well until evenly coated.
5. **Assemble and Bake:**
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the chilli crust evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
#### Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality cheeses like aged cheddar and Gruyère.
- Adjust the heat level by adding or removing cayenne pepper according to your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and freshness.
#### SEO-Friendly Meta Description:
Experience the creamy goodness of 4-cheese mac and cheese topped with a spicy chilli crust! Perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings together rich flavors and a satisfying kick. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
#### Conclusion:
Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and fiery heat in every bite of this 4-cheese mac and cheese with spicy chilli crust. Perfect for sharing or indulging alone, it's sure to be a hit at any gathering.