[C M Burns]

This is always a tricky spot.
A. folding pre flop would be a big mistake getting 5-1.

Betting out is probably best, you may miss out on a continuation bet when you are ahead but should save some money when you are beat. it is awkward on the turn when they call but check calling can be expensive and just as awkward. I have often checked too in these spots but usually end up regretting not betting out.

If you know theplayers are a bit passive and will not continue to bluff the turn and riv then perhaps check calling and seeing how much is bet is ok, but you risk giving free cards that way.