The best cheese to use for any mac & cheese is sharp cheddar, and of course it doesn’t hurt to add parmesan to the mix! There are plenty of other cheeses that will work with a much different taste. Gruyere is a common cheese used for fondue and melts really well and Gouda cheese will add a robust, almost smoky flavor to your mac & cheese. White cheddar, Monterey Jack and Colby cheese are other common options for mac and cheese.