Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with these indulgent and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipes! Whether you’re a classic mac fan or looking for something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered. From spicy jalapeño twists to decadent truffle oil infusions, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to become your new go-to.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy baked macaroni and cheese, exploring 20 unique and mouthwatering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic Southern comfort food to international flavors and ingredients, these recipes offer a wide range of options for any time of year or occasion.
So grab your mixing bowls and preheat those ovens – it’s time to get baking!
Classic Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a comforting, creamy, and indulgent macaroni and cheese dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Colby jack cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups whole milk
– 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 mixing bowl, combine cheddar and Colby jack cheese.
4. Add flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
5. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the milk mixture; whisk until no lumps remain.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; mix until coated.
8. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, bubbly, and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni with Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 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 mixing bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and dot with butter.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni.
7. Drizzle milk over the breadcrumb topping.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Spicy Jalapeño Baked Mac and Cheese
Spicy Jalapeño Baked Mac and Cheese: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
This creamy macaroni dish gets a kick from the addition of spicy jalapeños, making it perfect for those who like a little heat in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 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.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, and melted butter.
4. Mix in heavy cream until well combined.
5. Transfer the 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.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your mac ‘n cheese game with the luxurious addition of lobster meat. This rich and creamy dish is perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooked and diced)
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. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Truffle Oil Infused Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe infused with the decadent flavor of truffle oil. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 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 butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly. 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. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture 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: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Baked Macaroni
Elevate your mac ‘n cheese game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of baked pasta with the savory goodness of crispy bacon and melted cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 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, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk together with milk to make a roux, stirring constantly.
5. Add grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, bacon, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this bold twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Spicy buffalo chicken adds a tangy kick to the creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound macaroni
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1 teaspoon buffalo wing sauce
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, chicken broth, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Layer half of the macaroni mixture, then top with half of the cheese blend. Repeat layers.
7. Top with shredded chicken and sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Baked Macaroni
Elevate your macaroni game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup cooked spinach
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach, artichoke hearts, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter; add the macaroni mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Gouda Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, smoky twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe. Smoked Gouda adds a rich, savory flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated Smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole 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. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated Smoked Gouda (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Macaroni
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Macaroni: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This creamy, flavorful macaroni dish combines the richness of pesto with the sweet, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Caramelized Onion Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the sweet and savory addition of caramelized onions! This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 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, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly add heavy cream, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and cream mixture. Mix well.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Macaroni
A classic comfort food dish gets a twist with the addition of tender pulled pork, smothered in tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – creamy macaroni and cheese with rich, meaty goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup pulled pork (BBQ-style)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pulled pork, shredded cheese, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and pork mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Dot the top with butter and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Four-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese with Garlic Butter Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and crispy macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 4 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Havarti cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer; cook 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese (1 cup), Gruyère, Parmesan, Havarti, paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese (3 cups).
6. Mix garlic butter crust ingredients (softened butter, minced garlic) in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the macaroni mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Baked Macaroni
A comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe combines the richness of cheddar with the added nutrition of steamed broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– 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 broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Mix well to coat.
6. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and succulent shrimp. This recipe combines the creaminess of baked pasta with the spiciness of Louisiana-inspired spices, creating a unique dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Stir until well combined.
5. Top with cheese mixture (combine cheddar and mozzarella) and add cooked shrimp on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Goat Cheese and Herb Baked Macaroni
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the brightness of fresh herbs. This comforting casserole is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 bowl, combine cooked macaroni, goat cheese, butter, parsley, chives, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chorizo and Pepper Jack Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni game with this bold and creamy recipe that combines the richness of chorizo sausage and the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chorizo sausage
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, 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 large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, chorizo sausage, and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food into a seasonal delight with the addition of roasted pumpkin puree, creating a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika, chopped parsley for garnish
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. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Fold in roasted pumpkin puree.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and salt/pepper to taste.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe gets a bold boost from the spicy kick of buffalo cauliflower. A perfect comfort food for anyone looking to spice up their pasta game.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss cauliflower florets with Frank’s RedHot sauce, then spread on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and whole milk. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, buffalo cauliflower, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This comforting casserole is a game-changer for those with gluten intolerance, using gluten-free pasta and a rich cheese sauce to create a satisfying, creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gluten-free 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 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
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: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy goodness with these 20 baked macaroni and cheese recipe ideas! From classic Southern comfort food to spicy Jalapeño twists and luxurious lobster and truffle oil infusions, there’s something for everyone. Try adding smoky Gouda, caramelized onions, or chorizo and pepper jack for added depth of flavor. Or go bold with buffalo chicken, BBQ pulled pork, or creamy pumpkin. And don’t forget about gluten-free options! Whether you’re a comfort food enthusiast or looking to mix things up, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
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