5 Cheese Crack and Cheese (Print View)
Ultra-creamy macaroni loaded with five cheeses, baked to bubbling golden perfection for ultimate comfort food.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
1 pound elbow macaroni
→ Cheeses
02 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
03 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
04 -
1 cup shredded gouda cheese
05 -
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
06 -
1 cup cream cheese, softened
→ Sauce Base
07 -
1/2 cup whole milk
08 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
09 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
Salt, to taste
11 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Directions:
01 -
Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow to preheat.
02 -
Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
03 -
In a large pot over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add softened cream cheese and whole milk, whisking constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
04 -
Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until seasonings are evenly distributed.
05 -
Return drained macaroni to the pot, stirring thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
06 -
Gradually add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until all cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is homogeneous.
07 -
Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
08 -
Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
09 -
Remove from oven and allow to cool for several minutes. Serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Allowing the baked pasta to rest briefly before serving helps the cheeses set for easier portioning.