Macaroni and Four Cheeses is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of four different cheeses with tender macaroni pasta. This recipe features a combination of Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, and low-fat mozzarella cheese, creating a delightful blend of cheesy goodness. The macaroni is cooked until al dente and tossed with margarine for added flavor and creaminess. The layered macaroni and cheeses are then topped with a smooth and creamy mixture of milk, cottage cheese, flour, onion, and mustard. A final sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds a crispy texture to the dish. Macaroni and Four Cheeses is baked in the oven until golden and bubbly, resulting in a mouthwatering and satisfying meal. Serve this dish hot for a comforting and cheesy delight that will please everyone at the table.
INGREDIENTS:
- 225g/8oz dried macaroni
- 25g/1oz margarine
- 100g/4oz Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 100g/4oz Romano cheese, grated
- 350ml/12fl oz skimmed milk
- 100g/4oz low-fat cottage cheese
- 25g/1oz plain flour
- 1⁄4 onion, sliced
- 1⁄2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 100g/4oz low-fat mozzarella cheese, grated
- 75g/3oz fresh breadcrumbs
PREPARATIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.
- Cook the macaroni in lightly salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with half of the margarine.
- In a 1.2 litre/2pt baking dish, layer half of the cooked macaroni and sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining macaroni and cheese.
- In a blender or food processor, purée the skimmed milk, low-fat cottage cheese, flour, sliced onion, and mustard until smooth. Pour this mixture over the layered macaroni.
- Sprinkle the grated low-fat mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs with the remaining margarine.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
- Bake the Macaroni and Four Cheeses in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve the dish hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Ensure that the macaroni is cooked until al dente for the best texture in the final dish.
- Customize the recipe by adding additional herbs or spices to the cheese mixture, such as garlic powder or dried herbs.
TIPS:
- Serve the Macaroni and Four Cheeses as a standalone main dish or as a side alongside a fresh green salad.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
- For a richer and creamier dish, use whole milk instead of skimmed milk.
- Broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking to achieve a golden and crispy breadcrumb topping.
YIELD:
Serves 6.
Macaroni and Four Cheeses is a classic and indulgent dish that combines tender macaroni pasta with a blend of four different cheeses. This recipe features Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, and low-fat mozzarella cheese, creating a rich and flavorful combination. The macaroni is cooked until al dente and tossed with margarine for added creaminess. The layered macaroni and cheeses are then topped with a smooth and creamy mixture of milk, cottage cheese, flour, onion, and mustard. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds a crispy texture to the dish. Baked to golden perfection, Macaroni and Four Cheeses is a comforting and satisfying meal that will delight cheese lovers.
To prepare this dish, simply layer the cooked macaroni and cheeses in a baking dish, then pour over the creamy mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. A breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crunch. Bake until golden and bubbly, and serve the Macaroni and Four Cheeses hot for a cheesy delight.
Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the cheese mixture or incorporating cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Whether enjoyed as a standalone main dish or served as a side, Macaroni and Four Cheeses is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its rich and creamy flavors make it a comforting and indulgent choice for cheese enthusiasts.
