5 Mac N Cheese Recipes That Are Unbelievably Cheesy

Macaroni and cheese, lovingly known as mac n cheese, is one of those comfort foods that warms the soul as much as it does the belly. Whether you're looking to indulge in a creamy classic or trying to up your culinary game with an innovative twist, there's a mac n cheese recipe for every palate. Below, we've rounded up five variations of mac n cheese that are unbelievably cheesy and destined to become your new go-to dishes.

Baked Classic Mac N Cheese

Let's start with the classic. There's nothing quite like the nostalgic taste of a homemade baked mac n cheese. This version is packed with cheese, creating that gooey, melty texture we all crave.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Here's how to whip up this cheesy masterpiece:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook until the mixture bubbles, around 1 minute.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, then add the dry mustard and pepper. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 3 cups of cheddar and all the Parmesan until melted. Combine with the cooked macaroni.
5. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and breadcrumbs, then dot with the remaining butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Lobster Mac N Cheese

For those looking to elevate their mac n cheese, why not add some luxury with lobster?

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

The steps to create this indulgent dish are:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook macaroni al dente, drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat, add the cheeses, cayenne pepper, and salt, stirring until the cheese is melted.
5. Mix in the macaroni and lobster, then pour into a greased baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining butter, then bake for 25-30 minutes.

🦞 Note: Substitute lobster with shrimp or crab if you prefer.

Vegan Cauliflower Mac N Cheese

For those avoiding dairy or seeking a healthier option, this vegan mac n cheese is creamy and just as satisfying.

• 1 pound gluten-free elbow macaroni
• 1 large cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Follow these steps to make a delicious, plant-based mac n cheese:

1. Boil the cauliflower until tender, then set aside.
2. Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain.
3. Blend the cauliflower with cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, turmeric, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until creamy.
4. Mix the cauliflower sauce with the macaroni and heat gently on the stove until heated through.

🌱 Note: Add cooked vegetables like spinach or peas for an extra nutritional punch.

Buffalo Chicken Mac N Cheese

Combining spicy buffalo sauce with chicken and mac n cheese makes for a meal that's both comforting and exciting.

• 1 pound macaroni
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs

To prepare this fiery twist:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the macaroni, drain, and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan, add flour, and cook until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk until thickened.
3. Stir in the cheese, remove from heat, and mix in buffalo sauce, chicken, and macaroni.
4. Transfer to a baking dish, top with blue cheese crumbles and breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes.

Smoked Gouda and Bacon Mac N Cheese

The smoky notes of gouda paired with crispy bacon provide a unique depth of flavor to traditional mac n cheese.

• 1 pound macaroni
• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Here's how to prepare this smoky delight:

1. Cook bacon until crispy; remove and crumble. Cook macaroni al dente, then drain.
2. In a pot, melt butter, add flour, and cook. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
3. Remove from heat, add cheeses, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in macaroni and bacon.
4. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.

🥓 Note: For an extra layer of smokiness, consider smoking your macaroni for a few minutes on a BBQ or with a smoking gun.

From the timeless comfort of the Classic Baked Mac N Cheese to the luxurious indulgence of Lobster Mac N Cheese, there's a cheesy delight for every occasion. The versatility of mac n cheese shines through with dishes like Vegan Cauliflower Mac N Cheese catering to different dietary needs, and the bold flavors of Buffalo Chicken Mac N Cheese for those who crave some heat. The rich, smoky twist of Smoked Gouda and Bacon Mac N Cheese adds another dimension to this beloved dish. Each recipe is a testament to the magic of cheese, pasta, and inventive cooking techniques.

Can I freeze mac n cheese?

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Yes, you can freeze mac n cheese, but it’s best to do so before baking to maintain the texture. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed when ready to eat.

What type of cheese works best for mac n cheese?

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Cheeses that melt well like cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, and Gouda are ideal. However, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

How do I make my mac n cheese creamier?

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To achieve a creamier mac n cheese, use a combination of milk and heavy cream or whole milk. Also, ensure you cook the cheese sauce gently to avoid graininess, and adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese can boost creaminess.

Is it necessary to bake mac n cheese?

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No, baking is optional. You can make a stovetop mac n cheese by simply combining the sauce with pasta and serving it without baking. However, baking adds a golden, crispy topping that many love.

How can I make a healthier version of mac n cheese?

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Opt for whole grain pasta, use lighter cheeses, or incorporate vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli for creaminess without the extra calories. Also, try using a mix of whole milk and low-fat milk or broth for the sauce base.