25 Mac and Cheese Recipes to Indulge Your Cheesy Cravings

Mac and cheese is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy delight. Whether you’re looking for something classic or adventurous, this list of 25 mac and cheese recipes will indulge your cheesy cravings.

From creamy stovetop versions to baked masterpieces, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe for any occasion. Let’s dive into these cheesy wonders!

1. Classic Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, this classic mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and simple to make.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
5. Add shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tip: Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

2. Bacon Mac and Cheese

Bacon adds a savory crunch that takes mac and cheese to the next level.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 strips of bacon, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, cook bacon until crispy. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt butter, then add cream and milk. Stir to combine.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted and creamy.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix.
6. Stir in crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately for a rich, savory treat!

Tip: Reserve some crispy bacon bits to sprinkle on top before serving for added texture and flavor.

3. Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their cheesy comfort, this spicy mac and cheese is perfect.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 jalapeños, diced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced jalapeños until softened.
3. Add milk and sour cream to the pan, then bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cooking until melted and creamy.
5. Add cooked macaroni and chili powder to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy kick!

Tip: Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños if you prefer a milder heat, or leave them in for an extra kick.

4. White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

White cheddar gives this mac and cheese a smooth, sophisticated flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
5. Add shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
6. Combine cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately!

Tip: Use aged white cheddar for a sharper, more complex flavor that stands out in this simple recipe.

5. Mac and Cheese with Sausage

This hearty version includes sausage for added protein and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Brown sausage in a pan over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cooking until melted and creamy.
5. Combine the sausage with the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired!

Tip: Opt for spicy Italian sausage to add an extra layer of flavor, or use a milder sausage if you prefer a subtler taste.

6. Truffle Mac and Cheese

A luxurious take on mac and cheese, the truffle oil elevates this dish with a rich, earthy flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon truffle oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese, cooking until smooth and creamy.
5. Drizzle in truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
7. Serve hot for a truly decadent treat!

Tip: Add truffle oil at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor, as heat can diminish its aroma.

7. Lobster Mac and Cheese

For a more luxurious twist, lobster brings sweetness and texture to this creamy dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lobster tail, cooked and chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Add the cooked lobster to the cheese sauce.
5. Combine the macaroni with the lobster cheese sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra lobster pieces.

Tip: Use lobster stock instead of milk or cream for an even richer, seafood-forward flavor.

8. Vegan Mac and Cheese

This plant-based version uses cashews and nutritional yeast for a creamy, cheesy sauce without any dairy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cashews, soaked
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot for a comforting, dairy-free mac and cheese.

Tip: Soak the cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes before blending to ensure a silky-smooth sauce.

9. Mac and Cheese with Buffalo Chicken

For a spicy, savory twist, this recipe incorporates buffalo chicken into the classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and add milk and sour cream, whisking to combine.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Toss the cooked chicken with buffalo sauce, then add to the cheese sauce.
5. Combine the macaroni with the buffalo chicken cheese sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately for a zesty, spicy dish!

Tip: Toss the cooked chicken in extra buffalo sauce before adding it to the mac and cheese for a bolder flavor.

10. Mac and Cheese with Spinach and Artichokes

This healthier version combines spinach and artichokes with creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
4. Add chopped spinach and artichokes to the sauce and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the macaroni with the creamy spinach-artichoke sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot for a delicious, veggie-packed twist on mac and cheese.

Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach and artichokes after cooking to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

11. Mac and Cheese with Garlic Parmesan Crust

For a crispy, cheesy top, this baked mac and cheese recipe features a garlic parmesan crust.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
6. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
7. Pour the macaroni into a baking dish, top with garlic breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy crust!

Tip: Toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with garlic and olive oil before sprinkling them on top for an extra crispy, flavorful crust.

12. Mac and Cheese with Mushrooms

The earthy flavors of mushrooms pair perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté sliced mushrooms until soft and browned.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and add flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and sautéed mushrooms.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, and enjoy the savory mushroom twist!

Tip: Use a mix of mushrooms (like cremini, shiitake, and oyster) for a deeper, earthier flavor.

13. Mac and Cheese with Roasted Red Peppers

Sweet roasted red peppers give this mac and cheese a unique flavor and color.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and add flour to make a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
5. Fold in the chopped roasted red peppers.
6. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot for a flavorful and colorful dish!

Tip: Roast the red peppers yourself for a fresher, smokier taste, or use jarred peppers for convenience.

14. Mac and Cheese with Chicken and Pesto

Add some herbaceous flair with pesto and chicken in this mac and cheese recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and pesto sauce until melted.
4. Add the shredded chicken and mix well.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the pesto chicken cheese sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and enjoy the deliciously herb-infused mac and cheese!

Tip: Make your own pesto for a fresher, more vibrant flavor, or use store-bought for a quicker option.

15. Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

A healthy and colorful addition, broccoli pairs wonderfully with creamy cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.
6. Fold in the steamed broccoli.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and broccoli.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot for a nutritious and cheesy treat!

Tip: Blanch the broccoli before adding it to the dish to retain its bright green color and crisp texture.

16. Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork

Pulled pork adds a savory, smoky flavor to this indulgent mac and cheese dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup pulled pork (cooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and smoked paprika.
5. Fold in the pulled pork and mix well.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pulled pork.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot for a smoky, savory twist on mac and cheese!

Tip: Use leftover pulled pork or slow-cook it with barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy addition.

17. Mac and Cheese with Ham

Ham provides a nice balance of saltiness to this creamy mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup diced ham
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and add flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add diced ham to the sauce and cook for a couple of minutes.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and ham.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot for a comforting, savory dish!

Tip: Use diced smoked ham for a richer, more robust flavor that complements the cheese sauce.

18. Mac and Cheese with Shrimp

Shrimp adds a touch of luxury to the classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and cook shrimp until pink and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Add the cooked shrimp to the cheese sauce.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the shrimp cheese sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot for a rich, seafood-infused mac and cheese!

Tip: Sauté the shrimp with a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood flavor.

19. Mac and Cheese with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, savory flavor to this mac and cheese dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and mix well.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot for a tangy, savory mac and cheese experience!

Tip: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and reserve some of the oil to drizzle over the finished dish for extra richness.

20. Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions

The sweetness of caramelized onions complements the creamy cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup caramelized onions
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and sauté onions until golden and caramelized.
3. In a separate pan, make a roux with butter and flour.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Add the caramelized onions to the sauce and mix well.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and onions.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot for a sweet and savory mac and cheese treat!

Tip: Cook the onions low and slow to bring out their natural sweetness without burning them.

21. Mac and Cheese with Zucchini

Zucchini adds a fresh, light element to this rich and creamy dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, sauté diced zucchini until tender.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and create a roux with flour.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Add the sautéed zucchini to the cheese sauce and mix well.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the zucchini cheese sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot for a lighter version of mac and cheese!

Tip: Salt the diced zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture before cooking.

22. Mac and Cheese with Chorizo

Chorizo adds bold, spicy flavor to this mac and cheese dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, cook crumbled chorizo until browned and crispy.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Add the cooked chorizo to the cheese sauce.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the chorizo cheese sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot for a spicy, flavorful mac and cheese!

Tip: Remove the chorizo casing and crumble it finely for even distribution throughout the dish.

23. Mac and Cheese with Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and nutrition to this mac and cheese recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 sweet potato, roasted and mashed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Roast the sweet potato, then mash it.
3. In a pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the mashed sweet potato to the sauce and mix well.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the sweet potato cheese sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot for a sweet and savory mac and cheese experience!

Tip: Roast the sweet potatoes with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance their natural sweetness.

24. Mac and Cheese with Kale

Kale adds a nutritional boost and a slight bitterness to balance the rich cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Sauté kale in a pan until wilted.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and create a roux with flour.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Add the sautéed kale to the cheese sauce and mix well.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the kale cheese sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot for a nutritious and cheesy treat!

Tip: Massage the kale with a bit of olive oil before cooking to soften its texture and reduce bitterness.

25. Mac and Cheese with Pineapple

For a sweet twist on mac and cheese, add some juicy pineapple chunks.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup pineapple, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter and create a roux with flour.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
5. Add the chopped pineapple to the cheese sauce and mix well.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the pineapple cheese sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot for a unique and tropical mac and cheese experience!

Tip: Use fresh pineapple for a brighter, juicier flavor, and pat it dry before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

From the rich and creamy classic mac and cheese to inventive variations like sweet potato or pineapple, there is a recipe for every craving. Whether you’re craving something hearty with sausage or pulled pork or light and veggie-filled like kale and zucchini, these 25 recipes will elevate your mac and cheese experience to new levels of deliciousness. Enjoy experimenting with these cheesy dishes!