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Creamy 4 Cheese Brie and Buttery Ritz Cracker Mac and Cheese

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Creamy 4 Cheese Brie and Buttery Ritz Cracker Mac and Cheese is an ultra-indulgent version of the classic comfort food. Featuring a luxurious blend of brie, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and topped with a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust, it’s creamy, rich, and irresistibly crunchy.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 2 tbsp butter (for roux)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and chopped
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
  • Cooking spray or butter for greasing baking dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Reduce heat to low and add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and brie. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Remove the rind from the brie for a smoother texture.For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the cheese sauce.Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results.To make ahead, assemble the dish without the topping, refrigerate, and add topping just before baking.Broil briefly at the end of baking for a crispier crust.

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