Description
This ultra-creamy baked mac and cheese combines five luxurious cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and cream cheese—for a rich, indulgent dish that’s the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan cheeses to the sauce, stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure all pasta is coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra texture, top with breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese before baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Mac and cheese can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg