Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, adding 2 teaspoons of salt to the boiling water for flavor.
- Once cooked, drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Stir in the butter until it’s melted.
- Season the pasta with the remaining salt and black pepper.
- Mix in half of the cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, gouda, and feta cheeses.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and evaporated milk. Combine this mixture with your macaroni.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is beautifully browned and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy that cheesy goodness!
Best ways to enjoy it
Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated even further! Consider adding crispy bacon or sautéed breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra crunch. Pair it with a crisp, green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. This dish also goes well with garlic bread, turning your meal into a full comfort food feast.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it in shorter intervals, stirring frequently. Freezing is an option too! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
While preparing this dish, here are a few pro tips for success:
- Make sure to stir the pasta well during the melting process to ensure even distribution of flavors and cheese.
- Taste as you go! This will give you the chance to adjust seasonings.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-shredded cheese, which melts beautifully—but fresh cheese often has a creamier taste.
Creative twists
Feel adventurous? Here are some delicious variations:
- Swap out pasta shapes! Try shells or cavatappi for a fun twist.
- Add veggies like spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers to sneak in some nutrition.
- For a smoky flavor, toss in some crumbled cooked sausage or bacon.
- To make it lighter, replace the evaporated milk with low-fat alternatives and use whole-grain pasta.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese?
Prep time takes about 15 minutes, and with an additional 40-45 minutes of baking, you’re looking at around an hour in total.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to experiment with any small pasta shape, like shells or penne.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. The recipe will be just as creamy and delicious!
Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese is truly a dish that combines nostalgia with gourmet flavors, making it a candidate for your recipe rotation. Perfect for busy nights or festive dinners, it’s bound to impress. Now, go ahead and get cooking—you won’t regret it!
