Get ready to indulge in a world of comfort food bliss! Macaroni and cheese is a classic favorite that never goes out of style, and when you add a rich and creamy twist, it’s a game-changer. From classic baked mac and cheese to innovative twists featuring everything from truffle oil to lobster, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy macaroni and cheese delights, showcasing a range of dishes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or something bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with these 20 indulgent recipes.
Stay tuned for a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Cheddar
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe yields a golden-brown, cheesy macaroni and cheese casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
9. Sprinkle additional grated cheddar on top (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
Add a kick to your comfort food with this creamy, spicy macaroni and cheese recipe featuring jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2-3 sliced jalapeños (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Stir in cooked macaroni, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, salt, and pepper.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese with Gruyère
Elevate the classic comfort food to new heights with this decadent recipe, featuring the earthy flavor of truffle oil and the nutty richness of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp truffle oil
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Add truffle oil and stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese gets a bold kick from spicy buffalo chicken, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken (such as rotisserie)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir until smooth.
4. Add chicken broth, milk, cheddar cheese, blue cheese, and cooked chicken. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Garlic Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of succulent lobster meat, perfectly balanced flavors, and a crunchy garlic breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 pound lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted. Add lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Toss panko breadcrumbs with garlic and olive oil. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni mixture.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the smoky flavor of bacon and the tanginess of ranch dressing. It’s an easy and satisfying twist on a classic that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, and milk.
4. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
6. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese with Parmesan Crust
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese recipe with a crispy Parmesan crust and a blend of creamy cheeses. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Cashew Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting vegan twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish, made with roasted cashews and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1/2 cup roasted cashews
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, flour, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. In a large saucepan, combine the blended mixture and vegan cheddar shreds. Stir over medium heat until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar shreds if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Mac and Cheese with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto takes this dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add pesto, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this creative take on the classic comfort food. By stuffing bell peppers with creamy pasta, you’ll create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped ham or bacon for added protein
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese; stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture; stir until coated.
5. Cut off tops of bell peppers and remove seeds. Stuff each pepper with mac and cheese mixture.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavors of smoked gouda and sweet, caramelized onions. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown. Set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, smoked Gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, and caramelized onions in the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
A comforting fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese with tender, smoky BBQ pulled pork.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (BBQ style)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pulled pork, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the pork mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goat Cheese and Spinach Mac and Cheese
Creamy Goat Cheese and Spinach Mac and Cheese Recipe
This recipe combines the richness of goat cheese with the earthiness of spinach, creating a unique and delicious twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups goat cheese crumbles
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add goat cheese crumbles, stirring until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
5. Stir in spinach and heavy cream until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish. Top with additional goat cheese crumbles if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, featuring succulent shrimp and a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; mix well.
7. Add cooked shrimp and stir until coated with the cheesy sauce.
8. Combine macaroni and shrimp mixture; transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Pizza with Mozzarella Drizzle
A twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe combines the comfort of a creamy pasta dish with the fun of a pizza. The addition of melted mozzarella drizzled on top takes it to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread the mac and cheese mixture on the pre-baked pizza crust.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
9. Drizzle melted mozzarella cheese over the top (use a broiler or microwave to melt).
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese with Roasted Tomatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. In a baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with roasted tomatoes (see below).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Roasted Tomatoes:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Mac and Cheese Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring the creamy goodness of carbonara and the crispy texture of pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices pancetta, cut into small pieces
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together eggs, salt, and black pepper. Add cooked macaroni and stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until smooth.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with crispy pancetta.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kimchi Mac and Cheese with Gochujang
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy Kimchi Mac and Cheese recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Gochujang. This twist on a classic dish combines the tanginess of kimchi with the richness of macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped (use store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add chopped kimchi and Gochujang; season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and transfer to a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mac and Cheese Muffins with Cheddar Crust
A twist on the classic comfort food, these macaroni and cheese muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The addition of a cheddar crust takes them to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni, flour, and melted butter to the milk mixture. Mix well.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Sprinkle tops with additional cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Loaded Baked Potato Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this creamy, loaded twist that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the richness of a velvety cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large baked potatoes, diced
– Chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, or sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Slowly pour in heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Fold in diced baked potatoes.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game! This collection of 20 creamy recipes offers a variety of twists on the classic comfort food. From spicy jalapeño to truffle oil, lobster to buffalo chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for vegan or gluten-free options, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With flavors ranging from cheesy and rich to smoky and savory, this list is perfect for anyone who loves a good mac and cheese. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these delightful delights!
