Irresistible 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded gouda
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 cup shredded fontina
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Boil Pasta: Cook the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened.
4. Season It: Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cheese Party: Add all five cheeses (reserve a handful for topping). Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine Pasta: Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
7. Prep for Baking: Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with reserved cheese.
8. Breadcrumb Topping: Mix melted butter and panko, then sprinkle over the top.
9. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
10. Cool & Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked bacon or shredded chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use GF pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Cheese Swap: Sub Gruyère or Brie for fontina if needed.
• Make Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.

Note

Don’t overcook the pasta before baking—it’ll get mushy. Al dente is your friend.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Pair with BBQ ribs or fried chicken for a full soul-food spread.
• Top with hot sauce or sriracha for an extra kick.
• Leftovers make killer grilled cheese or mac & cheese balls.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~620
• Fat: 39g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 21g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

User Reviews/Comments

Samantha T. – “Made this for Friendsgiving and it was the first dish gone. Everyone asked for the recipe. Absolutely killer.”

Devon M. – “I added bacon bits and used spicy gouda—total flavor bomb. Will be making again for game day.”

Rina J. – “The texture and flavor are on point. Fontina was a great touch. Next time, I’ll try it with truffle oil.”

FAQs

Can I use fewer cheeses?
Sure, but it won’t be the same beast. Aim for at least three types to keep that depth.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi hold sauce well too.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Thaw overnight, then bake as usual.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Add a splash of milk and cover when reheating in the oven or microwave. Keeps it moist.

Can I make this without baking?
Yes, it works stovetop too—just skip the breadcrumb topping.

Is there a low-fat version?
You can swap cream for milk and reduce cheese, but why mess with perfection?

What’s fontina cheese like?
Creamy, nutty, melty—it ties the whole dish together.

Conclusion

5 Cheese Crack and Cheese is more than just a dish—it’s a declaration of unapologetic indulgence. Each bite is a journey through layers of flavor and comfort, a creamy rebellion against the bland. Whether you’re a cheese fanatic, a mac devotee, or just someone who appreciates good food, this recipe delivers the goods with rockstar swagger.

It’s perfect for celebrations or any time you want to serve a meal that hits hard and stays with you. The kind of dish that makes memories, sparks cravings, and becomes a legend at your table.

For a little cheese history to chew on while your mac bakes, check out the Wikipedia page on cheese. It’s older and richer than you think—just like this dish.

Now go on, make the damn thing. And don’t skimp on the cheese.