Are you a fan of comfort food? Do you crave a dish that’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying? Look no further! Macaroni and cheese is a classic recipe that never goes out of style, and when done right, it can be a game-changer. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different creamy macaroni and cheese recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From classic baked macaroni and cheese to innovative twists like buffalo chicken and truffle oil, we’ve got you covered with our diverse selection of recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your apron, preheat your oven (or stove), and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll dive deeper into each recipe and share some helpful tips and tricks for making the perfect macaroni and cheese!
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 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. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove sauce 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. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 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
One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food, elevated with a simple one-pot stovetop method that yields creamy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside. In the same 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 in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.
6. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and stir to combine with the cheesy sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day, as it’s easy to prepare and cooks while you’re away. With its rich flavor and gooey texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
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 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni and butter to the slow cooker. Mix well.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Three-Cheese Macaroni Bake
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please! This three-cheese macaroni bake is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 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, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy macaroni dish infused with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Whisk in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy and spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese! This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines the comfort of a warm pasta dish with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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, combine chicken broth, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, hot sauce, and cooked chicken. Stir until smooth.
4. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir until melted and well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the buffalo chicken mixture. Stir until coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Jalapeño Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the smoky flavor of bacon and the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped jalapeños and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni, bacon, and jalapeños. Mix well.
8. Transfer 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: 30-35 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe Summary:
Experience the luxurious combination of succulent lobster meat with creamy macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Truffle Oil Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate the classic comfort food with the decadent flavor of truffle oil, adding a sophisticated twist to this creamy macaroni and cheese dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup 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.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in truffle oil, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese until smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
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: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Mac and Cheese
Take your comfort food game to the next level with this creamy, spicy macaroni and cheese recipe. The addition of sriracha adds a bold kick that will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 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. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add sriracha sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. 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: 30-35 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese
A creamy, comforting classic: Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese. This recipe combines al dente macaroni with tender broccoli florets and a rich, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 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 broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Combine cooked macaroni and broccoli mixture into the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting dish combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. A perfect fall twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in pumpkin puree, then cheddar and mozzarella cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is coated in the creamy pumpkin sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a family-friendly meal.
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
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Mix breadcrumbs and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Macaroni and Cheese
Vegan Macaroni and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic!
Get ready to revisit the nostalgic goodness of mac ‘n cheese, now totally plant-based and free from dairy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz vegan macaroni (such as brown rice or quinoa pasta)
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or cashew work well)
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
– 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (made from tapioca, coconut oil, and lemon juice)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine non-dairy milk, vegan butter or margarine, flour, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast and vegan cheddar cheese shreds until melted and creamy.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheese shreds (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions. With its rich and creamy sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium 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 until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
This rich and comforting macaroni dish combines the classic comfort food of mac and cheese with the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. The perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese
A creamy, smoky twist on the classic mac ‘n cheese recipe, featuring smoked Gouda cheese for a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in 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 smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative twist on a classic: Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers! This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the crunch and sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until combined. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked macaroni, then top with cheese sauce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bright, herby flavor of pesto. The result is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp butter
– 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a southern twist by incorporating tender pulled pork, perfect for a cozy night in. The rich flavors of the mac and cheese are complemented beautifully by the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add paprika and whisk until combined.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked macaroni, pulled pork, and BBQ sauce to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy macaroni and cheese paradise! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that are easy to make, ranging from classic baked mac and cheese to more adventurous variations like buffalo chicken, lobster, and truffle oil. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course, these recipes have got you covered. From vegan and gluten-free options to decadent additions like bacon and caramelized onions, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy macaroni and cheese dishes.
