
This 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese recipe transforms an ordinary comfort food into something utterly addictive with its blend of five spectacular cheeses. The name doesn't lie—one bite and you'll understand why people can't stop eating it.
I created this recipe during a particularly cold winter when my family needed something truly comforting. The first time I served it, my husband went back for thirds and declared it should be illegal to make something this addictive.
- One pound of elbow noodles. The ridges in elbow macaroni capture the cheese sauce beautifully.
- One cup of softened cream cheese. This creates the velvety base that makes this mac and cheese so creamy.
- A cup of grated parmesan cheese. Adds a sharp umami flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- A cup of shredded gouda. Choose an aged gouda for more complex flavor notes.
- Two cups of cheddar, shredded. Sharp cheddar works best for that classic mac and cheese flavor.
- A cup of mozzarella, shredded. Creates those irresistible cheese pulls when serving.
- Half a cup whole milk. Whole milk creates a richer sauce than low fat options.
- A quarter cup of butter. Use unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
- One teaspoon garlic powder. Adds depth without overpowering the cheese flavors.
- Salt and pepper to your liking. Diamond Crystal kosher salt works wonderfully here.
How To Make 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese
- Preheat the Oven
- Crank your oven up to 350°F and give it time to fully preheat while you work on the other steps. This ensures even baking and that perfect golden top.
- Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous tablespoon of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the elbow noodles and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. You want them slightly firmer than fully cooked as they'll continue to cook in the oven. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce adhere.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt your butter completely, watching carefully to prevent browning. Add the softened cream cheese and milk, then whisk continuously until the mixture becomes completely smooth with no lumps. This may take 3 to 4 minutes of constant whisking.
- Season the Base
- Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Whisk thoroughly to incorporate all the seasonings evenly throughout the base. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Add the Pasta
- Return the drained pasta to the cheese sauce mixture. Using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, fold gently but thoroughly until every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy base.
- Incorporate the Cheeses
- With the pot still over low heat, add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan cheese gradually, about half a cup at a time. Stir continuously between additions, allowing each batch to melt completely before adding more. This gradual process prevents clumping and ensures a silky smooth sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by coating it thoroughly with butter. Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the dish and use your spatula to spread it into an even layer, pushing it into the corners for even baking.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the uncovered dish in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating halfway through if your oven has hot spots. The top should develop a beautiful golden crust while the sides bubble gently.
- Rest Before Serving
- Once removed from the oven, allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period lets the cheeses set slightly, making serving easier and preventing burned mouths.
My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly crispy top layer. My grandmother taught me that the secret to amazing mac and cheese is patience during the cheese melting process. No rushing means no graininess.

Perfectly Pairing Your Mac and Cheese
This indulgent dish pairs wonderfully with acidic sides that cut through the richness. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides the perfect contrast. For protein lovers, serving this alongside smoked brisket or pulled pork creates a comfort food feast. And dont forget a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a light beer to complement all that cheesy goodness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, as the pasta tends to absorb sauce during storage. For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F covered with foil until heated through, about 15 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but stir halfway through and heat at 70% power to prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes personalization. For a spicy kick, add a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper or fold in diced jalapeños. Crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions make wonderful additions. For a breadcrumb topping, mix a cup of panko with two tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking. You can also substitute any cheese with your favorites, though keeping the cream cheese is essential for that signature creaminess.

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this five cheese mac ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake for about 35-40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- → What can I substitute for gouda cheese?
If gouda isn't available, smoked provolone, fontina, or gruyère make excellent substitutes with similar melting properties and complementary flavors.
- → How do I prevent my cheese sauce from getting grainy?
To avoid graininess, use room temperature cream cheese, add shredded cheese gradually while the base is hot but not boiling, and stir constantly. Using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged also helps create a smoother texture.
- → Can I freeze leftovers of this five cheese mac?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat covered at 350°F until hot throughout.
- → What side dishes pair well with this cheesy pasta?
Balance the richness with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or grilled chicken. The acidity of a tomato-based side or pickled vegetables also provides a nice contrast to the creamy cheese flavors.
- → How can I add more flavor to this dish?
Enhance the flavor profile by adding caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. A dash of nutmeg, paprika, or cayenne pepper can also add complexity to the cheese sauce.