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20 Delicious Macaroni and Cheese Variations for Every Taste

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility, with countless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. It has so much going for it, from its creamy texture to its nostalgic connection with many of our childhoods. Dive into our traditional, and more adventurous creations, 20 in all.

Chili Mac

Chili-Mac-in-brown-bowl-with-fork.
Photo credit DƩdƩ Wilson.

Combining macaroni and cheese with beef chili for a hearty and satisfying meal. Get the recipe for Chili Mac.

Chicken & Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese

Chicken-Bacon-Ranch-Mac-and-Cheese-on-white-plate-with-fork-grey-quartz-surface.
Photo credit: DĆ©dĆ© Wilson from FODMAP EverydayĀ®.

Adding chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing elevates the classic mac and cheese. Get the recipe for Chicken & Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese.

Lobster Mac ‘n Cheese

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Photo credit DƩdƩ Wilson.

A luxurious twist on macaroni and cheese, featuring tender lobster meat in a creamy sauce. Get the recipe for Lobster Mac nā€™ Cheese.

Super Creamy Gluten-Free Easy Stovetop Mac ‘n Cheese

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Photo credit DƩdƩ Wilson.

A gluten-free version of mac and cheese that’s quick and easy to make on the stovetop. Get the recipe for Gluten-Free Easy Stovetop Mac nā€™ Cheese.

Cheesy Cheese Ramen

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Photo credit: Joyce Lee. 

A cheesy take on ramen noodles, perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Get the recipe for Cheesy Cheese Ramen.

Instant Pot Mac & Cheese

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Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

A speedy version of macaroni and cheese made in the Instant Pot for convenience. Get the recipe for Instant Pot Mac and Cheese.

Nut-Free Vegan Mac & Cheese

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Photo credit: My Pure Plants.

A dairy-free alternative made with sweet potatoes, carrots, and nutritional yeast. Get the recipe for Nut-Free Vegan Mac & Cheese.

Simple Mac & Cheese without Flour

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Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

A straightforward recipe for baked macaroni and cheese without the need for flour. Get the recipe for Simple Mac and Cheese without Flour.

Smoky Mac n Cheese and Tomatoes

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Photo credit: Tara Gerner.

This smoky baked mac and cheese with tomatoes is comfort food at its finest, laden with cheddar cheese and fire-roasted tomatoes and topped with crispy breadcrumbs and more cheese. This macaroni and cheese with tomatoes recipe is baked in the oven in under 30 minutes. Get the recipe.

Vegan Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli

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Photo credit: Alexandra Caspero.

Vegan mac and cheese you say? Yup. Mac and cheese without the cheese. A decedent, velvety cheese sauce that coats the shells and broccoli nooks and crannies in complete deliciousness. If youā€™re like me and are always looking for more vegan but cheesy recipes, then this one is for you. Get the recipe.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

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Photo credit: Cara, The Gourmet Bon Vivant.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is mac and cheese dressed up for company. Get the recipe for Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese.

One Pot Taco Mac n Cheese

taco mac n cheese.
Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Canā€™t decide between mac and cheese and tacos? Enjoy the best of both worlds with this taco macaroni and cheese. Itā€™s a one pot, Dutch oven 30 minute meal boasting both Mexican and Italian flavours in every mouthful. Get the recipe.

Instant Pot Hamburger Mac and Cheese

Instant-Pot-Hamburger-Mac-and-Cheese.
Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

This is Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with added beef and more spices. You can use ground beef, ground bison, ground pork or even ground turkey. Get the recipe for Instant Pot Hamburger Mac and Cheese.

Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl

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Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Can you think of a better comfort food than mac & beer cheese in a mini pretzel bowl? This Oktoberfest, Super Bowl or game day appetizer using mini pretzel rolls and a beer cheese sauce for macaroni is every bit as tasty as it sounds. This mini pretzel bread bowl recipe with a panko pretzel topping is an autumn favorite. Get the recipe.

Homemade Mac and Cheese

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Photo credit: Tiffany McCauley.

Homemade mac and cheese is on a whole other level compared to the boxed stuff you can buy at the store. Itā€™s absolutely comfort food, and the best part is that itā€™s just as fast and easy to make as the boxed stuff. So the only thing youā€™re missing with a recipe like this is the chemicals, preservatives, and food coloring that comes with the boxed variety. Get the recipe.

Instant Pot Kraft Macaroni and Cheese

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Photo credit: Ali Van Straten.

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is so easy to make in the Instant Pot! Macaroni and Cheese comes out perfect and creamy and is ready to eat in under 10 minutes. Get the recipe.

Instant Pot Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

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Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

Looking for a way to add some nutrition to your child’s plate? This Instant Pot Cauliflower Mac and Cheese may be just what you need. Make this recipe and get a creamy, fast and easy meal in less than 10 mintues! Get the recipe.

Creamy Brie Mac n Cheese

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Photo credit: Cara, The Gourmet Bon Vivant.

This creamy brie mac and cheese is the ultimate in luxurious comfort food. The key to this mac and cheese is the rich and creamy brie. It has such a delicate flavor, but the texture of it really makes a difference in the sauce. Get the recipe for Creamy Brie Mac and Cheese.

Mac n Cheese Bites

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Photo credit: Tiffany McCauley.

These mac and cheese bites are a tasty way to fill those lunchboxes and keep the kids happy, all at the same time! Get the recipe.

Mac n Cheese Cups

mac and cheese cups.
Photo credit: Elaine Benoit.

These baked mac and cheese cups pack all the creamy, cheesy flavors of your favorite dish in bite-sized form. With just 5 minutes of prep time, itā€™s the perfect way to kick off your next game day party! Get the recipe.

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Author

  • Dede Wilson

    DĆ©dĆ© Wilson is a journalist with over 17 cookbooks to her name and is the co-founder and managing partner of the digital media partnership Shift Works Partners LLC, currently publishing through two online media brands, FODMAP EverydayĀ® and The Queen Zone.

    View all posts

Last update on 2024-07-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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