Why Make This Recipe
Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese is a dream come true for cheese lovers. This dish combines five different types of cheese, creating a rich and creamy flavor that is hard to resist. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or a comforting weekend meal. You’ll love the cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth with every bite.
How to Make Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 tbsp kosher salt (for boiling water)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add milk and cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Gradually add in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and blue cheese; mix well until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni until fully combined.
- Season with black pepper and paprika, adjusting to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. (For an extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.)
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy your creamy mac & cheese!
How to Serve Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese
Serve this delicious mac & cheese hot, straight from the oven. It goes well as a main dish or a side. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
How to Store Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep it from drying out.
Tips to Make Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese
- Make sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente. This helps it hold up in the baking process.
- Mix the cheeses well until they fully melt to get a creamy texture.
- If you like a little crunch, don’t skip the breadcrumbs on top!
- Feel free to add a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Try adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac & cheese and store it in the fridge before baking. When you are ready to eat, just bake it straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What can I use instead of blue cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with additional cream cheese or use a mild cheese like Gouda or Colby Jack.
3. Can I freeze Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese?
Yes! To freeze, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
