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Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for cheese lovers. This rich and creamy dish combines five different types of cheese for a deliciously gooey experience. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just on a cozy night in, this mac and cheese is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese is not just about satisfying your cravings; it’s about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The blend of cheeses provides layers of flavor that can turn a simple dish into an extraordinary meal. Plus, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. You can customize it in many ways, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

1 lb large elbow macaroni
1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large egg
2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon granulated onion powder
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups American cheese or Velveeta, shredded
2 cups smoked gouda, shredded
2 cups smoked gruyère, shredded
2 cups colby jack, shredded

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and evaporated milk until smooth.
Slowly add the egg and milk mixture to the melted butter, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
Stir in seasoned salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion powder, ground mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Add all the shredded cheeses gradually, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and all the cheese is melted.
Add cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all the pasta.
Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

How to Serve Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Serve the Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese hot from the oven. It goes well as a main dish or a side. For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy texture.

How to Store Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality.
Feel free to combine different cheeses based on your preference or what you have at home.
Make it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variation

Try adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a delightful twist. You can also use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it just before serving.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different cheeses based on your taste.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños for extra heat.

This Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Whether it’s a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!