Baked Five-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. Made with a luxurious blend of five cheeses and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish delivers deep flavor, a velvety sauce, and a perfectly crisp top.
Whether you’re serving it as a cozy family dinner, a holiday side dish, or the star of a potluck table, this baked mac and cheese never fails to impress. Each bite is creamy, indulgent, and packed with cheese lovers’ dreams.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-Creamy & Cheesy – Five cheeses = maximum flavor.
- Perfectly Baked – Creamy inside with a golden top.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for holidays and gatherings.
- Comfort Food Classic – Rich, hearty, and satisfying.
- Customizable – Swap cheeses or add extras easily.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Optional Topping:
- ½ cup buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream.
Cook until thickened and smooth.
3. Add the Cheeses:
Lower heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, and Parmesan.
Mix until melted and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Combine Pasta & Sauce:
Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
5. Bake:
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Top with breadcrumbs if using.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Let rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Serve hot with a spoonful of extra sauce from the edges.
Side Pairings:
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Fried chicken
- BBQ ribs
Leftover Uses:
- Mac and cheese bites
- Stuffed peppers
- Grilled mac and cheese sandwiches
Beverage Pairing:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Light white wine or lager
Additional Tips
- Shred cheese fresh for smoother melting.
- Don’t overcook pasta, it continues baking in the oven.
- Add a pinch of mustard powder for extra depth.
- For extra crisp top, broil 2 minutes at the end.
Variations
- Bacon Mac & Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne or jalapeños.
- Lobster Mac: Fold in cooked lobster meat.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
Freeze: Up to 2 months (before baking is best)
Reheat: Oven with splash of milk for creaminess
Special Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, any good melting cheese works.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble, cover, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Why is my mac and cheese dry?
Not enough sauce or overbaking, add a splash of milk when reheating.
Can I skip baking?
Yes, but baking adds texture and deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Baked Five-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is rich, creamy, and baked to perfection. With its indulgent blend of cheeses and comforting texture, it’s a dish that turns any meal into a celebration. One bite, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple on your table.
