Are you tired of the same old macaroni and cheese recipe? Look no further! We’ve gathered 18 creamy, cheesy, and downright decadent mac and cheese recipes that will take your comfort food game to the next level. From classic combinations like truffle oil and mushroom to bold flavors like buffalo chicken and lobster, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, smoky, or simply indulgent, these unique twists on a classic dish are sure to satisfy.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 different mac and cheese recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From pasta-stuffed peppers to crab-filled mac and cheese, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase a new and exciting flavor combination. So grab a fork, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy, cheesy goodness!
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Mac and Cheese
This creamy, savory macaroni dish combines the earthy flavors of truffle oil and sautéed mushrooms to create a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup 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 skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, mushroom mixture, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and truffle oil in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 lb cooked chicken, diced
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 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, buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked chicken to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the chicken-cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Garlic Butter Crumbs
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Garlic Butter Crumbs Recipe
This decadent pasta dish combines the rich flavors of lobster, macaroni, and cheese, topped with a crunchy garlic butter crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 lb cooked lobster meat (about 1 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and softened butter. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked lobster meat, garlic, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the lobster-cheese mixture.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. While the mac and cheese is baking, mix minced garlic with softened butter. Spread on top of the mac and cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Mac and Cheese
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bright, herby flavor of pesto and the sweet, chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 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.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in pesto and stir until smooth.
4. Add grated cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy macaroni and cheese infused with the bold flavors of jalapeños and a hint of popper goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 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; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over medium heat until melted and smooth.
4. Add cilantro, bacon, jalapeño pepper, and heavy cream to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture; stir until coated.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onions
Elevate the classic comfort food by adding crispy bacon and sweet, caramelized onions to your macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp 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 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add in cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth.
5. In a separate pan, caramelize onions with remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Mac and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with the warmth of pumpkin spice! This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
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 to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kimchi Mac and Cheese with Gochujang Drizzle
Spice up your macaroni game with the bold flavors of Korean kimchi and a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gochujang drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked macaroni and chopped kimchi to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
Gochujang Drizzle:
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over macaroni and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform classic mac and cheese into a colorful and flavorful stuffed pepper dish. This recipe combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 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 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, until smooth. 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Stuff each pepper with macaroni and cheese mixture.
7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a macaroni and cheese like no other! This recipe combines tender pulled pork with creamy pasta, all smothered in a rich BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pulled pork
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook until thickened.
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 mixture; stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crab and Old Bay Seasoning
Elevate the classic comfort food by adding succulent crab meat and a dash of Old Bay seasoning to this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 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 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with Old Bay seasoning.
6. Add cooked macaroni, crab meat, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Combine well.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Chile and Chorizo Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of green chile and spicy chorizo sausage. Perfect for a comforting meal that packs a punch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup green chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, whisking until smooth.
5. Add green chile sauce and stir to combine.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture, and sliced chorizo sausage. Mix well.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Gouda and Smoked Sausage
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying macaroni dish, featuring the creamy goodness of Gouda cheese and the smoky flavor of smoked sausage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 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, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually 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 Gouda cheese until melted. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, sauce, and sliced smoked sausage. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gouda cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Carbonara with Peas
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the richness of carbonara. The addition of sweet peas adds a burst of freshness to this indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas
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 peas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine eggs, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked macaroni. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the egg mixture into a baking dish and top with peas.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Blue Cheese and Walnuts
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the pungent flavor of blue cheese and the crunch of toasted walnuts. This unique twist on a classic comfort food is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, and blue cheese. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni, parsley, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with toasted walnuts.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Spinach and Artichokes
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Spinach and Artichokes Recipe
Combine the comfort of classic macaroni and cheese with the added flavor and nutrition of spinach and artichokes for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 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 to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni, spinach, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer 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: 35-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Sriracha and Crispy Shallots
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe infused with the bold flavor of Sriracha and crunchy crispy shallots. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
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 to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. 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.
7. Sprinkle crispy shallots on top (see below).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Crispy Shallots:
1. Toss sliced shallots with 1 tsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Mac and Cheese with Brie and Fig Jam
This rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe gets a luxurious twist by incorporating the buttery goodness of brie cheese and the sweetness of fig jam. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated brie cheese
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar and brie cheese. Stir until smooth over medium heat.
4. Add fig jam, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Grease with butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your macaroni and cheese game to the next level! This article presents 18 unique and creamy flavor twists, from classic comfort food to bold international inspirations. From truffle oil and mushroom to buffalo chicken and lobster, these recipes will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, there’s a mac and cheese recipe on this list that’s sure to become a new favorite.
