Dinner

Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

ByLily Cross January 7, 2026January 7, 2026

Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy Five Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese. Packed with a blend of sharp, smoky, and melty cheeses, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s a cheesy delight that’s sure to please every crowd.

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish with a golden brown top layer of melted cheese that is bubbly and slightly browned in spots. One section is being lifted, revealing gooey, stretchy melted cheese pulling away, with creamy pasta underneath that is light beige and covered by the cheesy crust. The texture of the top layer is crisp and browned, while the inside looks soft and creamy. The dish is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb large elbow macaroni
1½ tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling pasta water)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large egg
2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon granulated onion powder
1 teaspoon ground mustard
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups American cheese or Velveeta, shredded
2 cups smoked gouda, shredded
2 cups smoked gruyère, shredded
2 cups colby jack, shredded

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add kosher salt, then cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
Step 4: Whisk in the egg and evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Stir in the seasoned salt, granulated garlic, onion powder, ground mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, blending well.
Step 6: Gradually add all the shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and creamy.
Step 7: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
Step 8: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Remove from oven and let the mac & cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Use a mix of smoked and sharp cheeses to balance smoky depth with tangy sharpness.
Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream before baking.

Storage

Store leftover baked mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals stirring in between to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a cheesy baked dish with a golden brown top layer that is bubbly and slightly crispy. The top layer of melted cheese stretches in gooey strings as a piece is lifted, revealing a creamy, soft layer underneath that looks smooth and rich. The dish appears to be in a white baking dish placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or penne work well and hold cheese sauce nicely.

Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess, but you can substitute whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, though the texture may be slightly different.