35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (2024)

Even if you think you don’t like mac and cheese, this list of the 35 best macaroni and cheese recipes is sure to change your mind. When it comes to making homemade mac and cheese, which is really a pretty simple dish, the secret is in the select ingredients you choose. For fans and die-hard mac and cheese lovers, this may be a dream come true. Eat mac and cheese at every meal and never have to eat the same thing all week!

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1. Skillet Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

thekitchn

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (1)

Surprise your loved ones with a twist on a classic favorite that is mac and cheese. Instead of the usual elbow or shell pasta, you can use potatognocchi and the result is an ultra-creamy and decadent dish.This is the kind of dish you’ll want to share with friends so read along the full recipe from The Kitchnto learn more.

2. Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

atasteofmadness

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (2)

There’s really nothing like the good old mac and cheese. It’s a total comfort food that will instantly lift your spirits up. This stovetop macaroni and cheese looks awesome! Creamy and scrumptious, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes. Homemade is always better so try this recipe sometime soon.

3. Copycat Cracker Barrel Restaurant Mac and Cheese

callmepmc

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (3)

I am not exactly a great cook so when it comes to mac and cheese, I am super guilty of buying the blue-box kind. But this recipe is just as easy, almost as quick, and bursting with flavors. Perfect as a side dish, it can be your ultimate comfort food.

4. White Wine Macaroni and Cheese

forkinthekitchen

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (4)

This recipe is really intriguing. Adding white wine to our all-time favorite seems like a far-fetched idea. But look at it this way, it’s a classy, gourmet take on the regular mac and cheese. Topped with a crisp, panko breadcrumb, I can definitely eat this every day!

5. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

foodieandwine

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (5)

Want a nice twist to a classic favorite? The garlic and parmesan flavors on this tasty dish put mac and cheese to a whole new different level. It doesn’t also hurt that it only takes 20 minutes to whip this up since it’s cooked with an instant pot. Try making them today and you’ll never regret it.

6. Spiralized Zucchini Mac and Cheese

thehealthymaven

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (6)

If you are a mac and cheese lover but on a low-calorie diet or even keto, you need not worry because there’s a healthy alternative. The spiralized zucchini mac and cheese is like the healthy makeover of the all-time favorite mac and cheese. It sounds amazing, right? The Healthy maven has the full instructions to get you started on this yummy and healthy dish. This is one of my all-time favorite keto recipes.

7. Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

cafedelites

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (7)

TheTuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese packs a lot of flavor for one pot dinner made on the stove top, in less than 30 minutes.Silky, creamy, super cheesy, thisdish will instantly become your new favorite. It just blows my mind how much cheesy goodness there is in this recipe. What an amazing recipe!

8. Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese,

momontimeout

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (8)

Kick up your mac and cheese game up a notch by adding jalapeño. Loaded with cream cheese, jalapeño, crunchy panko topping, and bacon, this recipe really hits the spot. If you don’t want it to get really hot, tame those jalapeños with lots of butter. But nonetheless, this is a super delicious recipe that I cannot wait to try.

9.Creamy Spinach Macaroni and Cheese

cookinwithmima

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (9)

This recipe is by far the quickest to make on this list. Done in 15 minutes, thisCreamy Spinach Macaroni and Cheese is a great dish to prepare for your kids. Cookin With Mima got you covered with the full recipe so better start reading it! I know I will.

10. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

foodtasticmom

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (10)

Are you fond of entertaining at home? Serve your guests with thisBuffalo Chicken Mac and Cheesein a big casserole dish and let them drool over this decadent goodness. It looks really awesome, I could definitely just dive into that mac and cheese!

11. Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese

simplyrecipes

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (11)

12. Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese

joyfoodsunshine

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (12)

13. Lobster Mac and Cheese

recipemadness

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (13)

14. Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

lilluna

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (14)

15. Panera Mac and Cheese

savingslifestyle

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (15)

16. Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

damndelicious

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (16)

17. Bacon Mac and Cheese

thesaltymarshmallow

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (17)

18. Creamy Vegan Macaroni and Cheese

cozypeachkitchen

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (18)

19. Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

infotoptrendy

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (19)

20. Mac and Cheese Tortellini

canadiancookingadventures

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (20)

21. Easy Taco Mac and Cheese

thecountrycook

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (21)

22. Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese

queensleeappetit

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (22)

23. Keto Philly Cheesesteak Mac n’ Cheese

ketomidwest

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (23)

24. Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

sweetteaandthyme

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (24)

25. Cauliflower and Corn Mac and Cheese

kidseatbyshanai

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (25)

26. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese With Bacon

inspiredbycharm

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (26)

27. Roasted Poblano Mac and Cheese

veggiesdontbite

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (27)

28. Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese

recipetineats

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (28)

29. Baked Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

healthynibblesandbits

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (29)

30. Baked Brie Mac and Cheese

halfbakedharvest

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (30)

31. Pepperjack Bacon Mac n’ Cheese

yummly

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (31)

32. Gluten Free Lobster Mac and Cheese

lwvogue

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (32)

33. Cashew Mac and Cheese

vnutritionandwellness

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (33)

34. Chili Mac and Cheese

recipetineats

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (34)

35. Flamin Cheetos Mac and Cheese

spicysouthernkitchen

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (35)

35 Mac and Cheese Recipes That Go Beyond Basic (2024)

FAQs

How do you upgrade your mac and cheese? ›

8 Ways to Elevate Your Macaroni and Cheese Dinners
  1. Add extra cheese to your dish.
  2. Mix in some hot sauce and chicken to make buffalo chicken mac n' cheese.
  3. Add in vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and spinach.
  4. Sprinkle some bacon bits or breadcrumbs on the top of your dish.
  5. Add spices and fresh herbs to your dish.
May 21, 2022

How do you perk up mac and cheese? ›

7 Simple Ways to Upgrade Boxed Mac and Cheese to Gourmet
  1. Boil it better. ...
  2. Amp up the cheese. ...
  3. Undercook the noodles. ...
  4. Dress up the dairy. ...
  5. Sprinkle in some spices or sauces. ...
  6. Stir in some veggies. ...
  7. Make it a mash-up meal.
Jun 22, 2021

What to add to a box of mac and cheese to make it better? ›

How to Make Boxed Mac and Cheese Taste Better. To improve the tang and overall cheesiness of your boxed mac, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt to the cooked and drained pasta while it's still warm. Toss to combine, then stir in the cheese powder until it's uniformly blended.

How does Gordon Ramsay make the best mac and cheese? ›

Preparation
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the pasta and milk. ...
  2. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and add the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. ...
  3. Divide between serving bowls and top with the bread crumbs.
  4. Enjoy!
  5. All your favorite recipes, stored in one place.
May 4, 2023

What is the best flavor to add to mac and cheese? ›

Black Pepper: Always a must! Nutmeg: This is also optional but trust me, a dash of it goes a long way to balance the tangy cheese flavor and all the fats. Cayenne Powder: A little sprinkle makes all the difference. It does not make this spicy – it just balances the flavors.

What not to do when making mac and cheese? ›

Here's what several experts say are the biggest mistakes when it comes to making macaroni and cheese at home and how to avoid making them.
  1. Using Only Cheddar cheese. ...
  2. Not Adding Spice and Seasoning with Salt. ...
  3. Choosing the Wrong Pasta. ...
  4. Overcooking. ...
  5. Skimping on the Toppings.
May 21, 2020

What does adding more milk to mac and cheese do? ›

Sauce too thick? Stir in a splash of milk and mix until the sauce has loosened up. (This is also a great trick for reheating mac and cheese - if you're microwaving leftovers and the sauce seems to have dried up, stir a splash of milk or half-and-half into the pasta to bring the sauce back to life!)

What to do if mac and cheese is bland? ›

Try adding a little more salt first, because that might fix it. If the problem was the cheese you use doesn't have much flavor, then try adding some other flavors, such has mustard or hot sauce. The next time you make it, try to find some more strongly flavor cheese, or adding more cheese.

Can I use yogurt instead of milk in mac and cheese? ›

Finally, using a plain yogurt is one of the best options for replacing milk in kraft mac and cheese! A plain whole milk yogurt or a greek yogurt would work well. Mix it in the same way you'd mix in sour cream, until it is well incorporated. This may have a slightly tangier flavor, but that is a personal preference.

How to make boxed mac and cheese taste like home made? ›

My all-time favorite hack for a boxed mac n' cheese is Greek yogurt and chicken stock. Extra butter, extra milk. Add some sharp cheddar cheese and stir until smooth, spread into a dish and sprinkle with some crumbled bacon and those french onion thingies you use to make green bean casserole. Bake until bubbly.

What are the 3 best cheeses for mac and cheese? ›

What Is the Best Cheese for Mac and Cheese? Sharp cheddar is the overwhelming popular choice, but for extra-creamy results, we think medium cheddar is even better. Other delicious options include Gruyère, smoked Gouda, and Monterey Jack.

What are the best 5 cheeses for mac and cheese? ›

The Best Types of Cheese
  • Sharp Cheddar. The king of all cheeses when it comes to coating your noodles. ...
  • Gouda. Gouda is a seriously underrated cheese when it comes to cooking! ...
  • Gruyère. Despite it being a hard cheese, Gruyère still melts nicely. ...
  • Cream Cheese. ...
  • Brie. ...
  • Goat Cheese. ...
  • Parmesan. ...
  • Anything pre-shredded.
Mar 14, 2023

How to upgrade the version of mac? ›

From the Apple menu  in the corner of your screen, choose System Settings. Click General in the sidebar of the window that opens, then click Software Update on the right. If you don't have System Settings in the Apple menu , choose System Preferences instead. Then click Software Update in the window that opens.

What do should I add to homemade mac and cheese for taste? ›

Additional Add-in & Toppings:
  1. Extra cheese topping – Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before baking.
  2. Breadcrumbs– combine about 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 3 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Sprinkle over top of the macaroni and cheese just before baking.
  3. Bacon Bits – Cook about 4-5 slices of bacon.
Jul 20, 2022

How can I upgrade my mac? ›

To download macOS software updates, choose Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar (you may need to scroll down), then click Software Update on the right. To update software downloaded from the App Store, click the Apple menu—the number of available updates, if any, is shown next to App Store.

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