Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our exquisite 5 Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe. This gourmet dish, a staple in American cuisine, is not just your ordinary macaroni and cheese. It’s a luxurious blend of premium cheeses, including sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Parmesan, and cream cheese, creating a rich, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Our easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delightful culinary adventure, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a home cook or a food enthusiast, this high-quality, homemade mac and cheese dish is sure to impress. So, let’s elevate your cooking game and bring a touch of gourmet to your kitchen with this decadent 5 Cheese Mac and Cheese!
Ingredients:
- Pasta (like elbow macaroni) – 1 lb (16 oz)
- Butter – 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons)
- All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup
- Milk – 4 cups
- Cream cheese – 1/2 cup, softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, grated
- Gruyère cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread crumbs (optional) – 1/2 cup for topping
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cream Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Cheeses: Lower the heat and add in the cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the top with bread crumbs for extra crunch.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or thyme. Serve warm.
Enjoy your homemade 5 Cheese Mac and Cheese! It’s a comforting, cheesy delight perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to adjust the types of cheese according to your taste preference or availability.