🧀 Ultimate Five Cheese Mac and Cheese
Rich, creamy, and unapologetically cheesy.
This baked mac and cheese isn’t just comfort food—it’s a warm, melty hug in a bowl.
📋 Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp ground mustard (optional)
The Five Cheeses (shredded):
- 1 cup sharp cheddar
- 1 cup mozzarella
- 1 cup Gruyère or fontina (melts beautifully)
- ½ cup parmesan
- ½ cup creamy Havarti or Monterey Jack
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
- Optional: a pinch of paprika for color
🔥 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish in the oven). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
In a large saucepan or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk & Cream
Slowly whisk in the warm milk and cream until smooth. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly.
4. Melt in the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in all five cheeses (reserve some cheddar and mozzarella for topping). Stir until smooth and creamy. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard if using.
5. Combine with Pasta
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
6. Assemble & Top
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with reserved cheeses.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, parmesan, and paprika. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
🍽️ Serve Hot
This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, served alongside roast chicken, BBQ ribs, or as a stunning standalone.
⏱️ Quick Stats:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 6–8
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Try white cheddar or blue cheese for a twist.
- Add crispy bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions for an elevated version.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a GF-friendly dish.
