Why make this recipe
This Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is an ultimate comfort food. It combines five different types of cheese, creating a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. It’s easy to make and lets you enjoy the melty goodness of cheese right from your oven.
How to make Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb large elbow macaroni
- 1.5 tbsp kosher salt (for boiling water)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, adding salt to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all the cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, feta, parmesan), black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to serve Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Serve this delicious dish hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese or herbs on top for a nice finish.
How to store Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the baked macaroni cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Make sure not to overcook the macaroni. It should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. For example, you can add pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- To add some extra flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
Variation
You can turn this dish into a five cheese baked pasta by using any pasta shape you like, such as penne or shells. Adjust the baking time if needed, depending on the pasta used.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can mix and match cheeses based on your taste. Just make sure to keep the total amount the same.
Q: How long does it take to bake?
A: It generally takes about 25-30 minutes to bake until golden and bubbly.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.
Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, adding salt to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all the cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, feta, parmesan), black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
