When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the allure of a perfectly creamy macaroni and cheese. The classic combo of pasta, cheese, and sauce has been a staple in many households for generations, and its appeal shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re looking for a straightforward take on the original or something a bit more adventurous, there’s a mac and cheese recipe out there to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 different creamy mac and cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From classic baked variations to innovative twists featuring ingredients like truffle oil, lobster, and vegan cashew cream, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and try something new. So grab a fork and let’s dig in!
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy, and indulgent pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This classic recipe combines the simplicity of macaroni with the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 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, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy macaroni dish. This recipe combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the bold flavor of jalapeños, making it perfect for those who like a little heat in their pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 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.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced jalapeños and cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
4. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese gets a bold boost from spicy buffalo chicken, making it a perfect combination of comforting and exciting. With just the right amount of heat, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup buffalo chicken (store-bought or homemade), shredded
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo chicken and stir until combined.
4. In a separate pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken mixture in the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the decadent addition of lobster meat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly golden.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, bringing mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets an extra boost of flavor with the addition of three rich cheeses.
Bacon and Cheddar Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a comforting macaroni dish. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 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 diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk together with milk to make a roux. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Add grated cheddar cheese to the roux and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, bacon, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying macaroni dish, bursting with the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and transfer to a baking dish. Top with additional grated parmesan cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food gets a crunchy twist! This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Cashew Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this vegan twist on a classic macaroni and cheese dish, made creamy and rich with cashews. This recipe is quick, easy, and indulgent-free!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine cashews, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. In a saucepan, whisk together vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the blended cashew mixture to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavor of smoked Gouda! This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated smoked Gouda (such as Beecher’s Flagship)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped parsley for garnish
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 to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated smoked Gouda (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform your favorite comfort food into a visually stunning dish by filling bell peppers with macaroni and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Cut off tops of bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
6. Stuff each pepper with macaroni and cheese mixture, filling to the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of rich and herby pesto. This creamy pasta dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and 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 mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, pesto sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the sweet and savory addition of caramelized onions. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 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 skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate pot, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese with heavy cream. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavors of BBQ pulled pork! This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
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 and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and BBQ pulled pork in the cheese sauce. Mix well.
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.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Roasted Broccoli
Elevate the classic comfort food to a new level by adding roasted broccoli’s natural sweetness to a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 broccoli florets
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°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. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Roast broccoli florets on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and roasted broccoli in a serving dish. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Goat Cheese and Spinach Mac and Cheese
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting macaroni and cheese package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp 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, combine chicken broth, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Dot the top with butter and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
A childhood favorite gets a fun upgrade with the addition of hot dogs to this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 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 to create 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, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. Add cooked macaroni, sliced hot dogs, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
9. 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: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese Pizza
A creamy twist on traditional pizza, this Mac and Cheese Pizza combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the flavors of a classic pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cooked bacon, chopped ham, or diced vegetables
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Spread cooked macaroni on pizza dough, followed by the cheese sauce.
8. Add desired toppings (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese Carbonara
This innovative recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the rich flavors of a classic carbonara. The result is a decadent, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 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 mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked bacon and butter to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the egg mixture and stir until coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these 20 creamy mac and cheese recipes! From classic baked mac to innovative twists like truffle oil, buffalo chicken, and vegan cashew options, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to elevate your mac game with garlic parmesan, bacon and cheddar, or smoked gouda. And why not get creative with stuffed peppers, pesto, caramelized onions, or even hot dogs? These mouth-watering recipes are sure to become a new family favorite.