Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This 5 Cheese Krack N Cheese recipe is a simple and delicious comfort food classic that delivers incredible flavor. Combining five different cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats every noodle perfectly. For more cheesy inspiration, try the Irresistible Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe or the Pumpkin Cheesecake Snickerdoodles Recipe for a sweet twist on cheesy desserts.

Ingredients

This 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese delivers an incredibly creamy, smoky, and complex flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

• 1 pound large elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup smoked gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup colby jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup American or Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Cheeses

Grate 8 ounces total of five different cheeses: sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Gouda, and Parmesan. Combining these varieties creates the signature flavor profile of 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese. Keep cheeses chilled until ready to use for easier grating.

Step 2 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse—the starch helps the cheese sauce cling to the pasta.

Step 3 — Make the Roux Base

Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden and fragrant. This roux will thicken your 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese sauce beautifully.

Step 4 — Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in your grated cheeses in batches, saving some Parmesan for topping.

Step 5 — Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is thoroughly coated. For extra creaminess, add a splash of warm milk if the sauce seems too thick. Taste and season with salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne if desired.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Transfer the 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with reserved Parmesan and buttery breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the baked 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly for perfect scooping. Serve warm as a standout main dish or comforting side.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	30g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole wheat pasta — Adds fiber and a nutty flavor to your 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese.
• Low-fat milk — Creates a creamy texture with less saturated fat than heavy cream.
• Cauliflower florets — A low-carb alternative that blends smoothly into the cheese sauce.
• Nutritional yeast — Offers a cheesy, savory flavor for a dairy-free 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese.
• Greek yogurt — Boosts protein and adds tanginess to the cheese sauce.
• Gluten-free pasta — Perfect for those avoiding gluten, with a similar texture to traditional pasta.
• Reduced-sodium cheese — Lowers salt content while maintaining the rich, melty quality.
• Lentils or chickpeas — Provides plant-based protein and a hearty, satisfying bite.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese with crispy bacon bits and chives for a smoky, savory contrast.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
• Perfect for potlucks and game day gatherings—it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Top with buttery breadcrumbs and broil briefly for a golden, crunchy finish.
• Accompany with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese.
• Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant, portion-controlled presentation.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a special occasion, this 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese brings creamy, cheesy comfort to any table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheeses with anti-caking agents. Fix: Shred your own cheese for a smoother, creamier 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese sauce.
• Mistake: Adding all the cheese at once to the hot sauce. Fix: Remove the pan from heat and stir in cheese gradually to prevent a grainy texture.
• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta, leading to a mushy final dish. Fix: Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to absorb sauce in the oven.
• Mistake: Using a bland cheese blend without a strong-flavored anchor. Fix: Include a sharp cheese like aged cheddar or gruyère to give your 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese depth.
• Mistake: Creating a sauce that’s too thick before baking. Fix: Aim for a loose, pourable consistency, as the sauce will thicken significantly in the oven.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of tempering eggs if your recipe includes them. Fix: Slowly whisk a little of the hot sauce into the eggs first to prevent scrambling.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the sauce adequately, relying solely on the cheese. Fix: Taste and season your sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder or nutmeg.
• Mistake: Using a cold baking dish straight from the cupboard. Fix: Warm your baking dish to help the 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese heat evenly and prevent a temperature shock.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, causing the cheese to separate. Fix: Bake at a moderate 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden, not boiling.
• Mistake: Serving the mac and cheese immediately after baking. Fix: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the sauce can set for perfect, creamy slices.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Always ensure your 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese is stored properly and reheated to a safe temperature to maintain quality and food safety.

Conclusion

This 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more cozy meals, check out our Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe or Cowboy Beans Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

What cheeses work best in 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese?

For the ultimate creamy and flavorful 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese, use a mix of cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretch, gouda for smokiness, parmesan for saltiness, and cream cheese for richness. This combination creates a perfectly balanced, decadent sauce.

Can I make 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving for the best texture and gooey cheese pull.

How do I prevent my 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese from being greasy?

To prevent a greasy 5 Cheese Krack n Cheese, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents. Also, make a smooth roux-based sauce to properly emulsify the cheese into the milk base.