Name: Gorgonzola Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-488182H12M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or other creamy, well-melting cheese); 1 cup Gorgonzola cheese; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1.5 cup uncooked macaroni pasta (or gluten-free / 100% corn macaroni); 1.5 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk (or cream / half-and-half)

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Short description

A rich, indulgent baked macaroni and cheese with creamy melt‑friendly mozzarella Gorgonzola, perfectly balanced by a smooth sauce and golden‑brown finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe hits a comforting sweet spot—no flour-based roux, just cheeses, pasta, and dairy baked until bubbly. It’s effortless to assemble, rich in flavor, and satisfying from first bite to golden crust.

Gorgonzola Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or other creamy, well‑melting cheese)
1 cup Gorgonzola (see note for options)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1.5 cup uncooked macaroni pasta (or gluten‑free / 100% corn macaroni)
1.5 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk (or cream / half‑and‑half)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
In a round oven‑safe dish (~6 × 2 in or similar), mix mozzarella, Gorgonzola, salt, and pepper.
Add the uncooked macaroni and stir to combine evenly.
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring all macaroni is submerged.
Bake at 350 °F for 30 minutes.
Increase the oven temperature to 400 °F (200 °C), gently mix, then bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Remove and let rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 4 as a side dish
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Initial bake: 30 minutes at 350 °F
Final bake: 15 minutes at 400 °F
Resting time: At least 10 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour and 5 minutes

Variations

Cheese alternatives: If Gorgonzola is too strong or unavailable, opt for a milder blue cheese like Gorgonzola Dolce, or even a vegetarian Dolcelatte. Mixing in Parmesan or Gruyère gives an extra flavor layer.
Breadcrumb topping: For a crispy finish, sprinkle Panko mixed with butter and Parmesan on top before baking—similar to other elevated versions of mac and cheese.
Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms bring savory complexity and texture—styling ideas from gourmet adaptations.

Storage and reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over gentle heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. You can also reheat in the oven at low temperature until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes—any short pasta works, but shapes like shells, fusilli, or cavatappi hold sauce well.

2. Which type of Gorgonzola should I use, Dolce or Piccante?

Both work. Dolce is creamier and mild; Piccante is more pungent and firm. Choose based on your flavor preference.

3. Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely. Feel free to customize with Gruyère, Parmesan, or Fontina for extra flavor or better browning.

4. Can this be made gluten‑free or dairy‑free?

Use gluten‑free macaroni as noted. Dairy‑free options for cheese and cream are limited—this recipe relies heavily on dairy for texture and flavor.

5. How can I make it less rich?

Use half‑and‑half instead of heavy cream, or mix with low‑fat milk, but avoid reducing fat too much as the sauce may separate or get grainy.

6. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes—assemble and refrigerate. When ready, bake straight from the fridge, allowing extra baking time to heat through.

7. Why rest before serving?

Resting (~10 minutes) allows the sauce to thicken and set, making serving cleaner and safer.

8. Can I add vegetables or proteins?

Yes. Fold in cooked mushrooms, beef, or sautéed onions for added flavor.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight, then reheat in a low oven covered with foil to prevent drying.

Conclusion

This dump‑and‑bake Gorgonzola mac and cheese delivers deeply comforting flavors with minimal prep. Its streamlined method makes it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions alike. Whether sticking to the classic or experimenting with toppings and additions, it’s a rich, cheesy dish that’s sure to satisfy. Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or pairing suggestions!