Description

There's something magical about the perfect mac and cheese. It’s the quintessential comfort food that can warm your soul on the coldest of days, bring a smile to your face after a long day, or be the star of any family gathering. But not all mac and cheese dishes are created equal. Some are good, others are great, but this Five Cheese Krack N Cheese is in a league of its own. Imagine a dish so rich, so creamy, and so packed with cheesy goodness that it becomes an instant favorite among everyone who tries it. This isn’t just any mac and cheese—it’s an experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, and gouda cheeses. Continue to stir until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is generously coated.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: The Perfect Crunch

To elevate the texture of this dish, consider mixing in some crumbled cooked bacon with the panko breadcrumbs before topping the mac and cheese. The bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the richness of the cheese, and it also provides an extra layer of crunch that takes this dish from delicious to unforgettable. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Sharing

This Five Cheese Krack N Cheese is more than just a side dish; it's a showstopper. The blend of five different cheeses creates a depth of flavor that is both sophisticated and utterly comforting. The creamy sauce envelops each piece of pasta, while the crispy, buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect contrast in texture. Whether you're making it for a holiday feast, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.

What makes it even better is its versatility—you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste, whether by adding bacon, using different types of cheese, or even throwing in some cooked vegetables for a bit of color and nutrition. However you choose to make it, one thing is certain: this mac and cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds.