- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Optional Topping:
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a crispy topping.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy Baked Mac & Cheese as a comforting and satisfying meal! Adjust the cheese varieties and seasonings according to your taste preferences.