When you’re in the mood for comfort food, nothing beats mac and cheese.

You’ve probably enjoyed the classic creamy version, but what if you could make it even more exciting?

With bold flavors and fancy toppings, there are so many ways to enjoy this cheesy delight.

Get ready to explore 17 amazing mac and cheese recipes that will satisfy your cravings.

From spicy to cheesy, these ideas will make your next family meal super special.

So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into some mouthwatering Mac and Cheese adventures!

Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese, a rich and velvety dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) to season the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!

Baked Mac and Cheese With Breadcrumb Topping

A comforting classic, this Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping combines creamy cheese sauce with a crispy, golden crust for the ultimate cozy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter until combined.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

A fiery twist on a classic, this Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese combines creamy comfort with a bold kick of heat.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Add chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the spicy cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
9. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the macaroni.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Truffle-Infused Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of truffle-infused mac and cheese, a gourmet twist on a classic comfort dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp truffle oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens.
6. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Add the truffle oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, mixing well.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Bacon and Cheddar Mac and Cheese

A smoky and savory delight, Bacon and Cheddar Mac and Cheese combines crispy bacon with sharp cheddar for an irresistible comfort food experience.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the sauce, stirring to combine.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Fold in the crispy bacon, reserving a small amount for topping if desired.
9. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved bacon bits on top.

Lobster Mac and Cheese Delight

Indulge in the luxurious combination of creamy mac and cheese with succulent lobster for an unforgettable Lobster Mac and Cheese Delight.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
5. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
8. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika, then remove from heat.
9. Fold in the cooked macaroni and chopped lobster meat until well combined.
10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
11. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
12. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
14. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Vegan Cashew Cheese Mac

A creamy, dairy-free twist on classic mac and cheese, this Vegan Cashew Cheese Mac uses a rich cashew-based sauce for a comforting, plant-based meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4-6 hours or boiled for 10 minutes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (optional, for creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked or boiled cashews and place them in a blender.
2. Add vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the blender.
3. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, about 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and return to the pot.
5. Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir over low heat to combine and warm through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add almond milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra smoked paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

A spicy twist on a classic, this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheese with tangy buffalo sauce and tender chicken for a bold, comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Add the buffalo hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
7. Fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken until fully coated in the sauce.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Four-Cheese Gourmet Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Four-Cheese Gourmet Mac and Cheese, a rich and creamy dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, Parmesan, and blue cheese until fully melted and smooth.
7. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Broccoli and Cheese Mac Bake

A comforting Broccoli and Cheese Mac Bake combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Add broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and broccoli with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing well to coat evenly.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the macaroni mixture.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the rich, smoky flavor of this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese, a creamy twist on the classic comfort food.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until fully coated.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Indulge in a spicy twist on a classic with this Cajun Shrimp Mac and Cheese, blending creamy cheese with bold Cajun flavors and succulent shrimp.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
7. Season the sauce with the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Stir in the cooked macaroni and shrimp, mixing well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to heat through.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese

Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic, infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs for a comforting, savory dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Add the thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
8. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring it is well coated.
9. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on low heat to blend the flavors.
10. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with smoky, tender pulled pork.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups cooked pulled pork
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Fold in the cooked pulled pork, ensuring it is well distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
9. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual bowls.
10. Drizzle with barbecue sauce, if desired, before serving.

Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onion Mac

Indulge in the rich, tangy flavors of Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onion Mac, a gourmet twist on classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux.
5. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the crumbled blue cheese and Dijon mustard into the sauce until the cheese melts, then season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and blue cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese

A creamy, veggie-packed twist on classic mac and cheese, combining the rich flavors of spinach and artichoke in every comforting bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Add the spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
8. Fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring it is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
9. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Twist

A delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, this Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese combines creamy sweet potato puree with cheesy goodness for a comforting, nutrient-packed dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the sweet potato cubes in a pot of water for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree the cooked sweet potato with milk until smooth.
4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the sweet potato puree to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the butter.
6. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
7. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!