5 Cheese Crack and Cheese Recipe

What if mac and cheese could be even more decadent, even more irresistible?
That’s exactly what this 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese Recipe delivers—a gooey, melty, ultra-rich dish packed with five different cheeses.

Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you want to treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food, this mac and cheese isn’t just good—it’s unforgettable.

Why This 5 Cheese Mac and Cheese Stands Out

This mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection with a bubbling golden top.
The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, and cream cheese creates layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Prep time is about 20 minutes.
Bake time is around 25 to 30 minutes.
In under an hour, you’ll have a side or main dish that steals the show.

This recipe is easy enough for weeknights but decadent enough for special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Tips

• Use block cheeses and shred them yourself for better melting and flavor.
  Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture.
• Adjust the garlic powder to taste if you want a stronger garlic flavor.
• Whole milk works best, but you can use half-and-half for an even richer sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.

2. Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain well and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the softened cream cheese and milk.
Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce.
Stir well to coat all the pasta evenly.

5. Add the Cheeses
Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and grated parmesan to the pot.
Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is thick and glossy.

6. Assemble and Bake
Spoon the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

7. Cool and Serve
Let the mac and cheese cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly.
Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness.

How to Serve It Like a Pro

This 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese looks impressive enough straight from the oven, but you can make it even better with simple finishing touches.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or chives for color
• Add a light dusting of smoked paprika or extra parmesan before baking for a golden crust
• Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple protein like grilled chicken or steak

This dish works as a standout side or as a rich, satisfying main.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store leftovers
Let the mac and cheese cool completely.
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat
Warm individual servings in the microwave with a splash of milk stirred in to loosen the sauce.
Or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

To freeze
Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make-ahead tip
Assemble the mac and cheese completely but do not bake.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Bake fresh the next day, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if needed.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy 5 Cheese Mac and Cheese
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

2. Bacon Mac and Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of crumbled cooked bacon before baking.

3. Lobster Mac and Cheese
Add cooked, chopped lobster meat for an indulgent twist.
Perfect for special occasions.

Each variation keeps the luxurious base but lets you customize it to your taste or event.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese Recipe is everything mac and cheese should be—rich, creamy, gooey, and absolutely packed with flavor.
The mix of five cheeses gives it depth, and baking it ensures a perfect golden crust.

Whether you serve it for a casual dinner, a holiday feast, or a cozy Sunday meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Once you try it, it might just become your go-to mac and cheese recipe.

Tried it? Let us know in the comments how it turned out or share your favorite add-ins.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cheeses?
Yes. Try swapping in Monterey Jack, fontina, or asiago for different flavor profiles.

What pasta works best besides elbow macaroni?
Cavatappi, penne, or shells all hold the cheese sauce well.

Can I skip the baking step?
You can. The mac and cheese will be creamy and ready to eat right after the stove, but baking adds a delicious golden top.

How do I make it extra creamy?
Use half-and-half instead of milk and add a little more cream cheese for an even richer texture.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crispy finish.