This baked five cheese mac and cheese is a rich and creamy dish that combines the flavors of multiple cheeses for a decadent experience. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to please cheese lovers.
The preparation is simple, and the result is a cheesy, gooey pasta dish topped with a golden crust. You can easily adjust the types of cheese based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Overview of Baked Five Cheese Mac and Cheese
This baked five cheese mac and cheese is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of multiple cheeses, creating a creamy and indulgent experience.
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is a favorite among cheese enthusiasts.
The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any meal, whether casual or special.
Cheese Selection
The magic of this dish lies in the variety of cheeses used.
Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and cream cheese come together to form a luscious sauce that envelops the pasta.
Each cheese contributes its unique flavor, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this mac and cheese is straightforward and quick.
Start by cooking elbow macaroni until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
While the pasta cooks, a creamy cheese sauce is created by melting butter and mixing in flour, followed by milk and the assortment of cheeses.
This mixture is then combined with the pasta, ensuring each piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Baking to Perfection
Once combined, the mac and cheese is transferred to a greased baking dish, ready for the oven.
A topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes results in a golden, bubbly top that is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, making it a complete meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Nutrition Information
This baked mac and cheese serves about six people, making it ideal for sharing.
Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
It’s a comforting option that satisfies cravings while providing a hearty meal for family and friends.
Delicious Baked Five Cheese Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese features a blend of five different cheeses, including cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and cream cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, serving about 6 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked five cheese mac and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g