Mac and cheese – it’s everyone’s go-to comfort food, right? But wait until you see these 13 recipes. They’re not your usual cheesy pasta. We’re talking about adding stuff you wouldn’t believe, like truffles and all sorts of spices. It’s the same old mac with a wild twist. Ready to give your taste buds something new?
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese
Ditch the guilt but keep all the creamy, cheesy joy with this Greek yogurt mac and cheese. It’s a lighter spin on the classic, blending tangy Greek yogurt with heaps of cheese for a comforting, creamy experience. Perfect for those cozy evenings when you want comfort without the heaviness, this dish is a must-try for cheese lovers seeking a healthier twist.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
This turkey skillet mac and cheese is a game-changer. Imagine a grownup version of your childhood favorite, packed with nutritious spinach and peppers, all smothered in rich, gooey cheddar. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not just easy to whip up in 30 minutes but also a perfect blend of health and indulgence. Get ready to be wowed by its hearty goodness.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
Dive into the creamy richness of this sweet potato mac and cheese. It’s a clever mix of pureed sweet potato and almond milk, melted together with two types of cheese for an extra creamy touch. Plus, there’s a sneaky serving of spinach in there! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings a healthy edge to your indulgent cravings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
Sausage Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this sausage mac and cheese. The creamy, homemade sauce hugs each noodle, making every bite a velvety delight. It’s the perfect combination of cheesy goodness and savory sausage, appealing to both adults and kids alike. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta
This smoked gouda mac and cheese with pancetta is a game-changer. Combining the sharp, smoky taste of gouda with crispy pancetta, it’s a sophisticated yet comforting dish. Packed with flavors and textures, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to an extraordinary cheesy experience.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta
Smoked Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese
Smoked bacon ranch mac and cheese takes your love for mac to new heights. With the irresistible addition of smoked bacon and the tang of ranch, it’s a flavor-packed, creamy dish that’s simply too good to pass up. Perfect for bacon lovers and those who adore a little extra flair in their cheesy meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Dive into the deep, rich flavors of smoked mac and cheese. This version adds a smoky depth to the creamy, cheesy base, creating an irresistibly unique taste. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a bold twist, making it a definite must-try for those who love a hint of smokiness in their comfort meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac and Cheese
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Butternut squash mac and cheese is a vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic. Merging the sweetness of butternut squash with a luscious cheese sauce, it’s both nutritious and indulgently cheesy. Topped with crispy lentils for a delightful crunch, this recipe is a colorful, mouthwatering must-try for comfort food enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Here’s a classic creamy mac and cheese that everyone, from little ones to grown-ups, will adore. It’s the epitome of comfort food: rich, creamy, and overflowing with cheesy goodness. Perfect for chilly days or cozy nights in, this recipe is the ultimate go-to for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese
Cheesy Cheese Ramen
Switch up your mac and cheese game with this cheesy cheese ramen. It’s a quick, easy recipe transforming instant ramen into a creamy, cheesy bowl of comfort. With cheddar cheese and milk, it’s perfect for those lazy days when you crave something heartwarming yet effortless. This dish is a playful and indulgent twist on two classic comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cheese Ramen
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Meet the ultimate comfort food hybrid: cauliflower mac and cheese. It’s like cauliflower au gratin met the cheesiest mac and cheese and had a delicious baby. This baked wonder pairs gooey, cheesy macaroni with a whole head of cauliflower, topped with a buttery, crunchy layer. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves their cheese with a side of veggies.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
One Pot Taco Mac and Cheese
Get the best of both worlds with this one pot taco mac and cheese. It’s a fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors, all in one comforting dish. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for a quick, hearty meal that combines the joy of mac and cheese with the zest of tacos.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Taco Mac and Cheese
Creamy Brie Mac and Cheese
Embrace the ultimate comfort with this creamy brie mac and cheese. It’s the perfect blend of rich, melt-in-your-mouth brie and classic mac, creating a luxurious treat on those chilly, dreary days. Every spoonful is a creamy, cheesy escape, making it a must-make for those special, cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Brie Mac and Cheese
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
