Get ready to indulge in a world of comfort food with these 20 creamy, easy mac and cheese recipes perfect for beginners! Macaroni and cheese is a classic dish that never goes out of style, and we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavors and twists to try. From classic stovetop recipes to baked, slow-cooked, and even vegan versions, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, these mac and cheese recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. So go ahead, get creative, and let your inner comfort food lover shine!
Classic Stovetop Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. This stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Baked Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines three types of cheese for a rich and creamy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
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 and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, cheesy macaroni dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This one-pot recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flour and whisk to combine. Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni; stir until coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
This comforting recipe brings together the classic comfort food of macaroni and cheese with the ease of slow cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
4. Top with butter and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy twist on a classic macaroni and cheese dish. The perfect blend of heat and cheesy goodness!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Stir in chopped cilantro, jalapeños, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy Buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe. Spicy buffalo sauce and crispy crumbled blue cheese add a bold kick to the classic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir until smooth over medium heat.
4. Add cooked chicken, blue cheese, and olive oil to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring succulent chunks of lobster meat in a creamy bechamel sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– Salt and black 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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
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
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent truffle oil mac and cheese recipe, featuring the earthy flavor of black truffles. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in truffle oil.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of crispy bacon and a tangy ranch twist. This indulgent dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni and cheese 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: 25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
This comforting pasta dish combines the simplicity of macaroni and cheese with the added nutrition and flavor of broccoli and cheddar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 1 1/2 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, broccoli, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of vibrant pesto! This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and pesto sauce until melted and combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate a childhood favorite with the perfect combination of creamy pasta, gooey cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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 milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Vegan Cashew Mac and Cheese
Creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese just got a plant-based twist! This vegan cashew mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a blender, combine cashews, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a saucepan, combine vegetable broth, almond milk, and nutritional yeast. Whisk until smooth.
5. Add the blended cashew mixture to the saucepan and whisk until combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with vegan cheddar shreds (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a gluten-free twist, this macaroni and cheese recipe uses rice-based pasta to create a deliciously creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free elbow macaroni (made from rice)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add gluten-free flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform classic macaroni and cheese into a flavorful, easy-to-make dish by stuffing it inside bell peppers. This creamy comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Stuff each pepper with cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this creative combination of macaroni and cheese, crispy crust, and melted mozzarella. This comforting fusion is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 1/2 cups pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Spread macaroni mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of macaroni mixture.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the comfort of macaroni and cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy sandwich. This indulgent treat is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1/4 cup macaroni and cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 slice of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spoon macaroni and cheese on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add an optional cheddar cheese slice if desired.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Mac and Cheese Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. Crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with macaroni and cheese goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Mix in the beaten egg and milk until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Fry the mac and cheese bites in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Drain excess oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese Soup
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy soup that combines the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with a velvety broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a twist on traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the pot; stir until well coated.
6. Simmer soup for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mac and Cheese Carbonara
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the richness of carbonara, resulting in a decadent and creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, Mozzarella)
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in eggs and cook until scrambled, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in mixed cheese, heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the egg mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer to a serving dish or individual ramekins. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these 20 creamy easy mac and cheese recipes for beginners! From classic stovetop and baked variations to unique twists like spicy jalapeño, buffalo chicken, and truffle oil, there’s something for everyone. Try making a slow cooker or one-pot garlic parmesan mac and cheese, or go bold with lobster, bacon ranch, or vegan cashew options. And don’t forget about the fun variations like mac and cheese stuffed peppers, pizza, grilled cheese sandwich, bites, soup, and carbonara! Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a quick and easy meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Leave a Reply