Mac n Cheese is a beloved comfort food, and when you combine five different cheeses, you get an incredibly creamy and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. This 5 Cheese Mac n Cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to indulge in a rich and satisfying meal. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making 5 Cheese Mac n Cheese, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients (Serves 5)
- 1 box elbow macaroni
- 12 oz evaporated milk (1 can)
- 3 eggs
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup provolone cheese, cut into small pieces
- ½ cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 4 teaspoons salt, divided
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Evaporated Milk:
- Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, stirring constantly to combine with the melted butter.
- Beat Eggs:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then gradually add them to the saucepan, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Add Cheeses:
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, provolone cheese, and smoked gouda cheese to the saucepan, stirring constantly until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season:
- Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt and black pepper to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Mix Together:
- Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Mac n Cheese
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mac n cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with Cheddar Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mac n cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the mac n cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the 5 Cheese Mac n Cheese hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses to suit your taste. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, feta, provolone, and smoked gouda provides a great balance of flavors and textures.
- Pasta Cooking: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when baked.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac n Cheese:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Mac n Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon into the mac n cheese mixture before baking for a smoky flavor.
- Vegetable Mac n Cheese:
- Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets or sautéed spinach to the mac n cheese mixture for added nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this mac n cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac n cheese up to the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover mac n cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze mac n cheese?
Yes, you can freeze mac n cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with 5 Cheese Mac n Cheese?
This mac n cheese pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
5. Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, rotini, or shells.
5 Cheese Mac n Cheese is a creamy and decadent comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture, this mac n cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply to satisfy your comfort food cravings, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this 5 Cheese Mac n Cheese recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful dish. Happy cooking!
