Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
16 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded gouda cheese
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded fontina cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni (or your choice of pasta) according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan or deep skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
Make a Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce.
Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Add the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and fontina cheeses to the sauce. Stir until all the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Mix Together: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the noodles evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Optional Topping and Baking
Prepare Breadcrumbs: If you want a crispy topping, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small pan and toss the panko breadcrumbs in it until they’re coated.
Assemble: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly on top.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your rich and gooey Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese!