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This Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese is ultra-creamy, extra cheesy, and packed with rich flavors. Perfect for a cozy comfort meal, holiday side dish, or indulgent treat!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, or penne)
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for depth of flavor)
The Five Cheeses:
- 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded (classic, rich flavor)
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded (melts beautifully)
- 1 cup Gruyère, shredded (adds nuttiness)
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated (for a salty bite)
- ½ cup Gouda or Monterey Jack, shredded (for extra creaminess)
For the Topping (Optional, for baked version):
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup Parmesan, grated
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring water and salt to a boil.
- Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute (this forms a roux).
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard.
3. Melt the Cheeses
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Parmesan, and Gouda.
- Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Combine & Serve
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
- Serve immediately OR continue to the baked version below.
Baked Version (Optional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan, then sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Variations & Tips
✅ Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
✅ Extra Creamy: Stir in 4 oz cream cheese.
✅ Protein Boost: Add crispy bacon, shredded chicken, or lobster.
✅ Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch.
Would you like a stovetop-only version or a keto-friendly alternative? 😊
