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Home / Best Recipes

17 Mac and Cheese Recipes So Good You’ll Lick The Plate

Erren Hart

|

last Updated:

07/07/2025

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Hey there, comfort food lovers! Are you ready for a big ol’ hug in a bowl? Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and we’re about to take it to the next level! Get ready to be wowed by these incredible new recipe twists – we’re talkin’ smokey goodness, decadent crab, and spicy chili mac ‘n cheese! These creative takes on the classic will make you fall in love all over again. Whether you’re a mac and cheese newbie or a seasoned pro, these fun flavors will make your taste buds do the happy dance! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get our mac on and discover a new favorite!

Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl

Macaroni and cheese in a bread bowl on a plate.
Photo credit: xoxoBella

This mac ‘n cheese is off the charts! The rich and creamy pasta is swimming in a savory beer-infused sauce, and it’s all nestled inside a soft, buttery pretzel roll. And let’s not forget that crunchy panko pretzel topping – it’s the perfect addition to this indulgent comfort food masterpiece!
Get the Recipe: Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl

One Pot Chili Mac

Image Credit: Budget Bites

Ditch the boxed dinner! This One-Pot Chili Mac is a grown-up version of your childhood favorite, made entirely from scratch for a super filling comfort food classic.

Get The Recipe: One Pot Chili Mac

One-Pot Vegan Mac and Cheese

A big bowl of Vegan Mac and Cheese on a table.
Image Credit: Marly McMillen/Namely Marly

Craving creamy, cheesy goodness without the hassle? This one-pot vegan mac and cheese is your answer! Made entirely in a single pot, this recipe is the epitome of simplicity and flavor.

Get The Recipe: One-Pot Vegan Mac and Cheese

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

a serving spoon digging into a dish of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Dive into timeless cheesy bliss! This creamy baked mac and cheese is surprisingly simple to make yet guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese

A fork digging into a big bowl of Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe is a spectacular, cheesy, one-pot creamy, and delicious dish! Ready in 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Pasta Stuffed Roasted Squash

roasted squash stuffed with mac n cheese ready to eat
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Surprisingly simple to prepare. Roasted squash filled with cheesy pasta creates a delicious and adaptable dish that works perfectly for a casual supper, a side dish, or even a dressed-up appetizer.

Get The Recipe: Cheesy Pasta Stuffed Roasted Squash

One Pot Cheesy Orzo

cheesy orzo close-up in a serving bowl with a golden spoon
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This one-pot cheesy orzo recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a sophisticated take on mac and cheese that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Cheesy Orzo

Mac and Cheese Soup

extreme close-up of a ladle with macaroni and cheese soup
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This easy mac and cheese soup recipe is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting!
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese Soup

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

A closeup of a creamy, cheesy serving of pulled pork mac and cheese on a white plate, garnished with parsley
Photo credit: Grandbaby Cakes

This Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is comfort food at its finest! Featuring a special blend of mac and cheese spices, tangy Carolina BBQ sauce, and a generous amount of cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash mac and cheese
Photo credit: Love and Lemons

This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese recipe puts a seasonal twist on a classic comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any fall or winter night. The recipe includes a blend of cheddar, Gruyere, and Pecorino cheeses, ensuring a rich and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Roasted Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Closeup of roasted cauliflower macaroni and cheese in pan
Photo credit: Gimme Some Oven

This Roasted Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe puts a fun twist on a classic comfort food. Featuring zesty roasted cauliflower, a velvety cheese sauce, and crispy toasted breadcrumbs, this vegetarian dish is simple to make and full of flavor. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Mac And Cheese

Easy Pumpkin Mac And Cheese
Photo credit: Chocolate Covered Katie

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese recipe is a healthy twist on classic comfort food, perfect for Fall. With pumpkin puree, garlic, and your favorite cheese, it’s a unique and delicious pasta dish. Many readers claim it’s the best pumpkin pasta they’ve ever tasted!
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Mac And Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

The most delicious Instant Pot Mac and Cheese you'll ever meet! This creamy, homemade Mac and Cheese is fast, easy, and can be on the table in 20 minutes!
Photo credit: Feasting at Home

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, delicious, and easy. A homemade mac and cheese that’s ready in minutes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses and toppings for a truly unforgettable meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Chili Mac

overhead view of crockpot chili mac in white bowls with a fork.
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This Crockpot Chili Mac is comfort food made easy! Macaroni is combined with beef, kidney beans, green chilies, and plenty of cheese for a kid-friendly dinner that’s both simple and satisfying. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic!
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili Mac

Keto Mac and Cheese

keto mac and cheese
Photo credit: The Big Man’s World

Craving mac and cheese while on a keto diet? This recipe uses keto-friendly pasta to create a creamy and cheesy dish without the cauliflower! With only 3 main ingredients, it’s ready in minutes and tastes just like Easy Mac.
Get the Recipe: Keto Mac and Cheese

Smoked Mac And Cheese

smoked mac and cheese in a white serving dish.
Photo credit: The Big Man’s World

This Smoked Mac and Cheese recipe elevates a classic comfort food with a delicious smoky flavor. Creamy, cheesy, and easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for holidays or any gathering. An oven option is also included for those without a smoker.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac And Cheese

Broccoli & White Cheddar Quinoa Mac and Cheese

quinoa mac and cheese in a skillet
Photo credit: Ambitious Kitchen

This Broccoli & White Cheddar Quinoa Mac and Cheese is a healthy and delicious twist on a classic comfort food! Packed with vegetarian protein and fiber from quinoa and broccoli, this dish features a creamy white cheddar sauce and a crunchy cracker crust topping. It’s also gluten-free and freezer-friendly, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli & White Cheddar Quinoa Mac and Cheese

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