If you love creamy, cheesy, and indulgent pasta, this 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese will become your new favorite recipe. Packed with layers of gooey cheese and baked until golden, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. This dish is rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to please every cheese lover at the table.
Why This Recipe Works
Ultra cheesy – made with five different cheeses for maximum flavor.
Family favorite – kids and adults both love it.
Perfect for gatherings – serves a crowd and reheats beautifully.
Customizable – swap cheeses to use what you already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup Colby cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Gradually add in cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Colby, and half of the Parmesan, stirring until melted.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese (or extra cheddar) on top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
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Tips for Success
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results.
Add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make it ahead by preparing the casserole and refrigerating; just bake before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion
This 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese is rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its five-cheese blend and baked perfection, this recipe is truly the ultimate mac and cheese experience.