The best way to improve on classic Mac and Cheese? Make it even cheesier!
What’s better than Mac & Cheese? That’s a pretty tough question, but we have the answer for you! It’s SIX Cheese Mac & Cheese, of course!
A great way to improve upon classic mac & cheese is to use a variety of flavorful cheeses, creating a luxurious and mouthwatering dinner.
While you can use any six of your favorite cheeses in this recipe, there are some cheeses that we’d particularly recommend!
Here are our favorites:
- Classic sharp cheddar: melts well and has a smooth creamy flavor
- Gruyere: deliciously nutty, this mature Swiss cheese adds a new dimension of flavor to Mac & Cheese
- Smoky gouda: this Dutch smoky cheese adds a meaty flavor, as well as being creamy and smooth
- Monterey Jack: originating in California, this cheese is wonderfully smooth, which creates a velvety melt, perfect for this Mac & Cheese!
- Brie: elegant and creamy, this decadent French cheese adds a touch of luxury to your Mac & Cheese
- Parmesan Reggiano: Nutty yet sweet, this Italian cheese adds a beautiful dimension to any pasta dish
With only 15 minutes prep time, this recipe can be whipped up even on those busy nights, which means you can add this to your recipe rota to enjoy often!
Variations
You can add yet another dimension of flavor to this tasty dish by creating a crispy top! Simply mix breadcrumbs (panko are best!) and butter with the shredded cheese you’ve set aside for the topping.
For more adventurous diners, add minced garlic to the topping for a slight bit of a heat, and an extra bite. Alternatively, add dijon mustard or mustard powder along with the cheese for a richer, more robust sauce.
Trying to get your kids to eat some extra veggies? Just dice them finely and add them to your Mac & Cheese! Why not include diced sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions in the mix for a uniquely delicious flavor?
Darius Cook’s 6 Cheese Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
- 6 cups Cooked Pasta elbow macaroni works best
- 1 stick Butter
- 4 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Half & Half
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 4 cups Cheese shredded – use any combination of cheeses you enjoy, plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Over high heat, melt butter in a large saucepan, and stir in the flour until it forms a thick paste. This creates the roux, which is a base in many sauces.
- Pour in the half and half and heavy cream, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Add the cheese, heavy cream, and seasonings, stirring thoroughly; reduce to a low heat.
- Allow the cheese to melt until it is thickened into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake until the top is a lovely golden brown, about 30 to 45 minutes.