5 Cheese Crack and Cheese

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5 Cheese Crack and Cheese: The Ultimate Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Dish

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy macaroni and cheese. But when you take it up a notch with five types of cheese, the result is a culinary masterpiece—5 Cheese Crack and Cheese. This recipe blends the perfect balance of textures, flavors, and aromas to create the most indulgent comfort food you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a special holiday dish, or the ultimate potluck contribution, this five-cheese mac will be the showstopper of the table.

Ingredients for 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese

To create the perfect 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Directions to Create the Perfect 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente—usually about 7–8 minutes. Avoid overcooking; the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the macaroni and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Five-Cheese Blend

In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, provolone, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until evenly distributed. Set aside about 1½ cups of the cheese mixture for the topping.

This blend offers the perfect harmony—cheddar gives sharpness, mozzarella provides meltability, Jack cheese adds creaminess, provolone contributes a slight tang, and Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish.

Step 3: Make the Rich Cheese Sauce

In a heavy saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce begins to thicken—this should take about 5 minutes.

Once thickened, add the seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and mustard powder. These spices elevate the flavor profile, making the sauce deeply savory and aromatic.

Gradually whisk in the cheese blend, a handful at a time, until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. The result is a luscious, velvety cheese sauce that clings beautifully to every pasta piece.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently until every noodle is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. The sauce should be thick but not heavy—if needed, you can add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese mixture evenly over the top.

For an irresistible golden crust, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the top layer of cheese. This creates a crunchy contrast to the creamy interior.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Why This is the Best 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese Recipe

This version of 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese isn’t just another mac and cheese—it’s a rich, flavorful fusion of texture and taste that delivers on every level.

  • Creamy and Velvety Texture: The combination of milk and cream produces a smooth sauce that doesn’t separate or clump.
  • Five Distinct Cheese Flavors: Every cheese has a role—sharp cheddar for bite, mozzarella for stretch, Monterey Jack for creaminess, provolone for depth, and Parmesan for umami.
  • Perfectly Balanced Seasoning: The spices enhance without overpowering, allowing the cheeses to remain the star.
  • Golden, Crispy Crust: The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy interior beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Cheese Crack and Cheese

  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded. Packaged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce.
  • Don’t skip the roux. This is the key to a creamy sauce that doesn’t separate.
  • Mix cheese slowly. Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump or become grainy.
  • Customize your blend. Substitute or add other cheeses such as Gruyère, fontina, or gouda for unique flavor variations.
  • Make ahead and store. This dish reheats beautifully—cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese with:

  • Crispy fried chicken for the ultimate comfort meal.
  • Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for balance.
  • A light green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
  • Barbecue or smoked meats, as the cheesy base complements smoky flavors perfectly.

This dish also makes a spectacular side for holiday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy goodness always leaves guests craving more.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~620
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Calcium: 40% DV

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese is the pinnacle of comfort food—luxurious, creamy, and bursting with cheesy flavor. Every bite delivers that perfect blend of melt-in-your-mouth pasta and rich, complex cheese sauce. Once you’ve tried this recipe, it will become your go-to for any occasion where indulgence is on the menu.

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