This decadent five-cheese mac and cheese is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Southern dish. Made with a rich blend of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, it offers a perfect balance of tang, smokiness, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The smoked gouda adds a subtle depth, while the cheddar brings a sharp kick, and the combination of mozzarella and Monterey Jack ensures a smooth, gooey texture. Finished with a golden-baked, crispy breadcrumb topping, this mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
Here’s a recipe for a Southern-style five-cheese mac and cheese that includes gouda. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavor:
Ingredients:
– 16 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 1 cup smoked gouda cheese (shredded)
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
– 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about seven to eight minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce:
– In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for two to three minutes until it turns slightly golden.
– Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
– Continue cooking for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
3. Add the cheeses:
– Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until all the cheese has melted into a smooth sauce.
4. Season the sauce:
– Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine pasta and sauce:
– Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
6. Bake (optional):
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you like a crispy top, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.
– Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
– Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Southern five-cheese mac and cheese!
This dish is perfect for a hearty side but could also work as a main course!
