Description
This ultra-creamy 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese is a rich, indulgent twist on classic mac and cheese, loaded with five melty cheeses and baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect as a cozy main or impressive side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add softened cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Whisk in milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and Parmesan. Stir until all cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the drained macaroni until evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for crunch.
- Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or veggies for variation.
- Use smoked cheeses like smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
- To serve stovetop-only, skip the baking step and serve after mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
