Ultimate Five Cheese Mac and Cheese

This creamy and indulgent Five Cheese Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with sharp cheddar, pepper jack, smoked gouda, mozzarella, and Velveeta, it’s a cheesy, flavorful dish that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, this mac and cheese will satisfy all your cheesy cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Five Cheese Mac and Cheese is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and comforting. With five types of cheese, including the sharpness of cheddar, the smokiness of gouda, and the creamy melt of Velveeta, each bite is a rich, decadent experience. The combination of spices like garlic powder, paprika, and ground mustard adds a nice depth of flavor. Plus, it’s baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese crust. This dish is truly the epitome of indulgence and comfort in one.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried macaroni noodles

• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese

• 3 cups pepper jack cheese

• 2 cups smoked gouda cheese

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 5 cups heavy cream

• 4 ounces Velveeta, cut into cubes

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground mustard

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the macaroni noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni noodles for 1 minute less than al dente according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set aside.

3. Shred the cheeses: Shred all your cheeses and divide them in half.

4. Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Bring to a low simmer, which may take about 5-6 minutes. Keep whisking occasionally to prevent the cream from burning.

5. Add the cheese and seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and add half of the shredded cheeses along with all of the Velveeta. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground mustard. Let the mixture simmer on low until everything is melted and creamy. (Do not increase the heat, as that could cause the sauce to become grainy.)

6. Combine the pasta with the sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.

7. Assemble the mac and cheese: Transfer half of the pasta and cheese sauce mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with half of the remaining shredded cheese. Add the rest of the noodles and top with the remaining shredded cheese for the final layer.

8. Bake the mac and cheese: Place the baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake uncovered on the middle rack for 35-40 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly.

9. Rest before serving: Let the mac and cheese sit for at least 15 minutes to thicken up before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Calories: 650 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Crunchy Topping: For an extra texture, top your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking. You can also sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an added flavor.

• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add extra pepper jack cheese, or mix in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: You can mix in vegetables like sautéed spinach, broccoli, or roasted tomatoes to add more nutrients and flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free, and make sure your cheese selections are gluten-free as well.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: This mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, but the texture may not be as smooth.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can use any combination of cheeses you like. Try using Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, you can use a spicier variety of pepper jack cheese or add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this mac and cheese ahead of time. After assembling it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, but you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, you can use any short pasta shape like penne, shells, or cavatappi. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the sauce.

5. Can I make this mac and cheese without Velveeta?

Velveeta adds creaminess and meltability, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with an additional cup of cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar). The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

6. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter substitute for heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

7. Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

8. How do I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?

To make your mac and cheese even creamier, add more cheese or a little bit of cream cheese to the sauce. You can also add a touch of sour cream or cream cheese for added richness.

9. Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, you can add cooked ground sausage, or even shredded chicken for a heartier meal.

10. How do I know when my mac and cheese is done baking?

The mac and cheese is done when it’s hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden brown. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up before serving.

Conclusion

Ultimate Five Cheese Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any cheese lover. With its blend of five delicious cheeses, creamy sauce, and perfectly baked top, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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