When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a warm, cheesy bowl of macaroni. There’s just something about the combination of al dente pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese that hits the spot every time. And why settle for just one way to enjoy this classic dish when you can try 20 different creamy macaroni recipes? From classic baked mac and cheese to spicy buffalo chicken mac, lobster macaroni and cheese, and even vegan cashew mac and cheese, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy any craving.
In the following article, we’ll be diving into some of our favorite creamy macaroni recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to spice things up with some bold flavors, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to satisfy any mac ‘n cheese craving, this recipe combines cooked pasta with a creamy bechamel sauce and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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 continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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 (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
This creamy, spicy, and satisfying macaroni dish is a twist on the classic comfort food. With the addition of buffalo chicken and a kick of heat from hot sauce, this recipe is perfect for those who love a little spice in their life.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo chicken (cooked and shredded)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 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 skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a separate pot, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, hot sauce, and chopped green onions to the cheese mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with crumbled blue cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Truffle Oil Macaroni with Gruyère
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Macaroni dish, perfectly paired with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the truffle oil and whisk until combined.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat with the truffle-butter mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent lobster macaroni and cheese recipe, featuring succulent chunks of lobster meat and a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body meat), diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk
– 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.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lobster meat and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring 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.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, lobster mixture, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 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: 30-40 minutes
Macaroni Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
A classic summer side dish gets a refreshing twist with this creamy dill dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chopped fresh dill
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add chopped fresh dill to the dressing mixture and stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, diced cucumber, and diced bell peppers in the bowl with the dressing mixture.
5. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy dill dressing.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Stovetop Macaroni
A comforting and flavorful macaroni dish that combines the richness of three cheeses, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Jalapeño Macaroni Bake
Bacon and Jalapeño Macaroni Bake: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 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 cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeño, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Macaroni with Breadcrumbs
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss with garlic mixture until well combined.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until coated.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
A creamy pasta dish elevated by the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions.
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 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 sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth sauce.
5. Remove the skillet with onions from heat. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onion mixture, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Cashew Macaroni and Cheese
Vegan Cashew Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
A creamy, plant-based twist on a classic comfort food, this vegan macaroni and cheese recipe uses cashews to create a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme 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 blender, combine cashews, olive oil, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. In a saucepan, whisk together the blended mixture and nutritional yeast. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional cashew cream or breadcrumbs if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Macaroni Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta
Classic Macaroni Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta Recipe
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender macaroni, savory pancetta, and a runny egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) macaroni
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and toss to combine with the egg mixture.
5. Add the pancetta to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Macaroni cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Pancetta cooking time: 5-7 minutes
Total Cooking Time: 13-17 minutes
Macaroni with Smoked Gouda and Spinach
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, smoky recipe that combines the richness of smoked Gouda cheese with the nutty flavor of wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup smoked Gouda cheese, grated
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Wilt spinach leaves by heating them in a pan with a little butter or oil until tender.
8. Combine macaroni and spinach; transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the sweetness of roasted peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, 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. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with cooked macaroni and top with the cheese sauce.
7. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Macaroni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto with the sweet and tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto and sun-dried tomato mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the tender goodness of pulled pork, creating a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 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 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 mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and pulled pork with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Macaroni Alfredo with Roasted Broccoli
A classic comfort food gets a nutritious boost with the addition of roasted broccoli, making this dish a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups broccoli florets
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss cooked macaroni with the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
6. Roast broccoli: toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Combine cooked pasta and roasted broccoli in a serving dish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Crab Meat
A comforting twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the rich flavors of macaroni and cheese with the succulent taste of crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 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 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 constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add crab meat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Macaroni with Goat Cheese and Herbs
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring tangy goat cheese and a medley of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, chives)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the crumbled goat cheese and stir until smooth.
3. Add the fresh herbs to the goat cheese mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until wilted.
4. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the goat cheese mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Cooking pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Preparing sauce: 5 minutes
– Total cooking time: 13-15 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Roasted Garlic
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the deep, nutty flavor of roasted garlic. This creamy pasta dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 heads of garlic
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 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 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic by wrapping the heads in foil and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add roasted garlic and cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Prosciutto
Elevate the classic comfort food to a new level by adding crispy prosciutto, which adds a satisfying crunch and salty flavor. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
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 continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. 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 the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped prosciutto.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 creamy macaroni recipes that are sure to become your new comfort food obsession! From classic baked mac and cheese to innovative twists like truffle oil macaroni and lobster macaroni, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegan or a meat-lover, this collection of recipes has got you covered. With options ranging from simple stovetop macaroni to decadent mac and cheese stuffed peppers, you’ll never get bored with the same old recipe again.
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