Ah, comfort food at its finest: creamy macaroni and cheese! Is there anything more indulgent than a warm, gooey plate of pasta smothered in a rich and velvety cheese sauce? We don’t think so. That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 creamy macaroni and cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic baked macaroni and cheese to more adventurous variations like spicy jalapeño and buffalo chicken, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. And the best part? Each dish is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
So grab a fork and get ready to dig in! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy macaroni and cheese, showcasing our top 20 recipes that are sure to become family favorites.
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is a classic take on the beloved comfort food, with a golden-brown crust and a rich, cheesy sauce.
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. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
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: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting classic with minimal fuss: this one-pot mac and cheese recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution.
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 macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, 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 for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Cheese Garlic Macaroni and Cheese
This rich and satisfying macaroni dish is a twist on the classic comfort food, with three types of cheese and a savory garlic flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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. Whisk in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Get ready to devour a comforting, cheesy meal with minimal effort! This slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a warm, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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 macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, whisk together milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked macaroni, butter, and stir until combined.
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)
Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe. This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper; whisk together for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
8. Add cooked macaroni, diced jalapeños, salt, and pepper; stir until combined.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold boost from buffalo chicken, creating a flavor combination that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir over medium heat until smooth and melted.
4. Add cooked chicken and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
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 and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
This rich and creamy macaroni dish is elevated to new heights with the addition of succulent lobster meat. Perfect for special occasions or a indulgent treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound lobster meat, diced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni and diced lobster meat to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
7. Transfer 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: 30-40 minutes
Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish gets a savory twist with the addition of crispy bacon and tangy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, and milk. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this rich and creamy Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese recipe. This decadent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Pesto Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy pesto macaroni and cheese recipe. A flavorful twist on the classic, this dish combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the brightness of basil pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 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 mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, pesto sauce, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
This comforting casserole combines the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the added nutrition and flavor of steamed broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 1 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 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, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked broccoli and cooked macaroni. 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
Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
Classic Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Twist: A comforting, creamy pasta dish gets an upgrade with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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, whisk together milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and mac and cheese is heated through.
Vegan Cashew Mac and Cheese
A vegan twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe uses cashews to create a rich and creamy sauce that’s perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine (melted)
– 1 cup nutritional yeast
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the melted vegan butter or margarine and nutritional yeast to the blender and blend until well combined.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni and sauce in a large bowl and stir until coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a gluten-free makeover! This recipe uses a combination of rice-based pasta and creamy cheese sauce to create a deliciously smooth macaroni dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free elbow macaroni (made from rice or corn)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create 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.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich, smoky flavor of smoked gouda. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup whole milk
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 constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda, cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, 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
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the vibrant flavors of roasted peppers. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s 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 olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and chopped parsley for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pot, combine milk, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Heat over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cooked macaroni and top with the cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
This classic recipe combines creamy macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of hot dogs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a childhood favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 2 tbsp 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.
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.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and sliced hot dogs to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese Pizza
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the fun of pizza, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of macaroni
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or 1 piece of naan bread
– Optional toppings: cooked bacon, chopped ham, or diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine butter and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and pizza sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Place the pizza crust or naan bread on a baking sheet.
6. Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
7. Add optional toppings of your choice.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese Bites
These bite-sized treats are a comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish. Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they’re perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 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 separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
7. Dip cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then roll in breadcrumb mixture to coat.
8. Place bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this indulgent twist: a macaroni and cheese filling inside a crispy, buttery sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup cooked macaroni and cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread macaroni and cheese on top of the bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add an optional slice of cheddar cheese on top of the macaroni.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these 20 creamy macaroni and cheese recipes! From classic baked versions to one-pot stovetop masterpieces, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Spice things up with spicy jalapeño or buffalo chicken, add some sophistication with truffle oil or lobster, or keep it simple with a vegan cashew option. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, there’s a mac and cheese recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
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