If you’re craving something cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, mac and cheese is always the perfect go-to dinner. Whether you prefer it classic, loaded with toppings, or mixed with a twist, these five mac and cheese recipes will hit the spot! Ready to indulge? Let’s get cooking!
1. Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to make a roux.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and seasonings until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, then serve warm.
Helpful Notes:
For an extra cheesy flavor, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Crust
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook and drain the macaroni.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Slowly add the milk and seasonings, stirring until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until fully melted.
Combine the cheese sauce with the pasta and transfer to a baking dish.
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Helpful Notes:
You can customize with your favorite cheese blend, such as gouda or fontina.
3. Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
Cook the macaroni and drain it. Set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Add the cheese and spices.
Stir in the cooked bacon and macaroni. Mix until well combined.
Helpful Notes:
For extra flavor, top with some extra crispy bacon before serving.
4. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Cook the macaroni and drain it.
In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk to make a roux. Gradually stir in milk, then add spices.
Stir in cheddar cheese until smooth.
Mix in the buffalo sauce and shredded chicken.
Combine with the macaroni and serve with a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce if desired.
Helpful Notes:
Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat from the buffalo sauce.
5. Veggie-Packed Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cauliflower, steamed and mashed
1/4 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup chopped spinach, sautéed
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Cook the macaroni and drain it.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Slowly add the milk and cook until thickened.
Stir in the mashed cauliflower, cheese, and vegetables.
Combine with the macaroni and serve hot.
Helpful Notes:
You can also use broccoli or zucchini for more veggie variety!
Conclusion
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be made with endless variations, whether you’re craving something classic, creamy, or with a bold twist. With these 5 dinner recipes for mac and cheese, there’s a perfect dish for every mood! Which one are you going to try first?
