Cheese Crack and Cheese | Ultra Creamy Comfort Food

If you’re a mac and cheese lover, get ready to meet your new obsession: 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese. This recipe takes classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level with five decadent cheeses, a rich and creamy sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping that’s impossible to resist.

Why is it called “crack and cheese”? Because it’s so creamy, cheesy, and addictive that you’ll keep coming back for more. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, family meals, or when you’re simply craving comfort food, this recipe is the ultimate indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Extra creamy – five cheeses blend into a velvety sauce.
Crowd-pleasing – a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Customizable – choose your favorite cheese combinations.
Perfect comfort food – indulgent, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste

The 5 Cheeses:

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Optional topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux – In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Build the sauce – Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Add the cheeses – Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Combine with pasta – Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
Optional bake – For a bubbly golden top, transfer to a baking dish. Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and crisp.
Serve hot – Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Protein boost: Mix in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef.
Vegetable addition: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or caramelized onions.
Make ahead: Assemble the mac and cheese in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Cheese swaps: Try fontina, provolone, or even smoked gouda for unique flavor.

Final Thoughts

This 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese is the definition of creamy, cheesy comfort food. With its rich five-cheese sauce and optional crispy topping, it’s a dish that works for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called “crack and cheese”—one bite and you’re hooked!