The Trio Of Cheeses That Make Costco's Mac And Cheese So Delicious

Costco's cheese choices are a little unorthodox

In addition to complementing each other, mac and cheese should be prepared with cheeses that melt effectively; otherwise, the sauce may lack the desired texture. Interestingly, Costco opts for extra-hard, low-moisture cheeses that typically do not blend smoothly, resulting in an ultra-silky, creamy sauce. Parmesan and pecorino are two cheeses often avoided in macaroni and cheese for this reason. While mild cheddar melts nicely, sharp cheddar does not (and the ingredient list on Costco's mac and cheese does not clarify which type is used in the recipe). Nevertheless, the grocery chain has successfully achieved the right balance of flavors, even if it may not have the perfectly smooth sauce we typically associate with mac and cheese.

To clarify, Costco's mac and cheese contains only those three specific cheeses, despite unfounded rumors suggesting the inclusion of other cheeses, with Gruyère being a prominent mention. Gruyère has a nutty flavor that somewhat resembles Parmesan, but it is milder and creamier, allowing it to melt more effectively. Therefore, if you're preparing a homemade version and want to replicate that signature Costco taste while achieving a smoother sauce, you can replace the Parmesan with Gruyère.