Are you ready to indulge in a comforting, creamy, and utterly irresistible dish? Look no further! Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 of the best mac and cheese recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic baked mac to truffle oil-infused delights, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
From creamy stovetop concoctions to baked masterpieces topped with crispy breadcrumb goodness, our selection of recipes is guaranteed to provide something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or prefer milder flavors, we’ve got a mac and cheese recipe that’s sure to become your new go-to comfort food.
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Get cozy with this comforting classic: a creamy blend of pasta, cheese, and buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 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 saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Mix well.
8. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Stovetop Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a rich and creamy twist with this three-cheese stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the luxurious addition of truffle oil. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Stir in truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
9. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with this spicy twist! This recipe combines the creaminess of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese for garnish
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 together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add buffalo wing sauce and shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This rich and creamy recipe combines the indulgent flavors of lobster, macaroni, and cheese for a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat (about 2 cups), drained and flaked
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 garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni, lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the added kick of jalapeños! This spicy twist is perfect for those who like a little heat in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
7. Add cooked macaroni, jalapeños, salt, and pepper; stir until combined.
8. Transfer to greased baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Caramelized Onion Mac and Cheese
Savor the rich flavors of crispy bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy macaroni and cheese in this comforting casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups 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 large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté onions for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
5. In a separate pot, combine milk and flour to make a roux, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, bacon, and caramelized onions in a baking dish. Top with cheese sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the comforting flavors of garlic, parmesan, and creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 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 large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over the garlic mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Soul Food Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a Southern classic that’s sure to satisfy any comfort food craving. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender pasta, it’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 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 (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. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pesto Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of creamy pesto! This recipe combines classic comfort food with the rich flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 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 mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add pesto sauce and heavy cream to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese 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 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
A comforting classic gets a crunchy upgrade! This recipe combines tender macaroni, rich cheddar cheese sauce, and a satisfying crispy breadcrumb topping for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
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 milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and combine well.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni game with this creamy Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring a rich, smoky flavor from the smoked gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 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 saucepan, combine milk, smoked Gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, and butter. Stir over medium heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated smoked Gouda cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Cashew-Based Mac and Cheese
A creamy, plant-based take on the classic comfort food. This recipe uses cashews to create a rich and velvety cheese sauce that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine (such as Earth Balance)
– 1 cup macaroni
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond milk)
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, salt, and vegan butter or margarine. Blend until smooth.
3. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour and non-dairy milk to make a slurry. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Gradually add the cashew-based cheese mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large serving dish. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork
This comforting casserole combines the richness of pulled pork with a creamy macaroni and cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (cooled)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups 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 large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pulled pork, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goat Cheese and Herb Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the tanginess of goat cheese and fresh herbs. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted 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 goat cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Mix well.
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: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform classic mac and cheese into a flavorful and visually appealing main dish by stuffing it inside bell peppers. This comfort food twist is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni and cheese (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook macaroni and cheese according to package instructions.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with mac and cheese, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese
This comforting classic gets a boost from a rich and creamy sauce, all cooked up in just one pot. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and stir until well coated with the cheesy sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Roasted Tomatoes
Classic macaroni and cheese gets a flavorful boost from the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Roast tomatoes in olive oil at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
8. Top macaroni with roasted tomatoes and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy paradise! This article features 18 mouth-watering macaroni and cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. From classic baked mac and cheese to truffle oil-infused twists and bold flavors like buffalo chicken and lobster, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness or a show-stopping main dish, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your next mac and cheese obsession!
