• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Recipe Collections

38 Mac and Cheese Dishes So Creamy They’ll Ruin Boxed Forever

Published: Dec 10, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Mac and cheese is one of those comfort foods that’s always a crowd-pleaser, but when it’s extra creamy and rich, it becomes something really special. These mac and cheese dishes are the kind of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth meals that will make you forget about the boxed stuff for good. They’re simple to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to hit that perfect spot every time you crave something rich and cheesy. Get ready to make your new favorite version of this classic dish.

Instant pot chipotle mac and cheese with a spoon in a bowl.
Instant Pot Chipotle Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of two bowls of mac and cheese with a fork beside each.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

My slow cooker mac and cheese is the easiest way to get that creamy, cheesy comfort food we all crave. Simply toss the ingredients in, stir, and let the slow cooker do the work while you relax.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This microwave mac and cheese is a quick fix for your cravings, offering creamy goodness in minutes. It’s perfect when you need a fast, comforting meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Kimchi Mac and Cheese

A close up image of kimchi mac and cheese in a cocotte.
Kimchi Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kimchi mac and cheese brings a bold, umami-packed flavor to the classic dish. With three types of cheese, it’s a great way to enjoy something unique while still enjoying the creamy, cheesy comfort we love.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Mac and Cheese

Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan.
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked gouda mac and cheese combines rich, creamy cheese with a golden crust for a comforting dish that’s ready in just 45 minutes. It’s an easy way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal with a bit of extra indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This easy-to-make copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese comes together in only 20 minutes. It’s a creamy and comforting option that’s perfect when you want something quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl

Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Mac and beer cheese in a mini pretzel bowl is a creative way to enjoy a cheesy classic. The beer cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the soft pretzel, making it a great appetizer or game day snack.
Get the Recipe: Mac & Beer Cheese in a Mini Pretzel Bowl

Instant Pot Chipotle Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Chipotle Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Gluten-free Instant Pot chipotle mac and cheese is made in just 10 minutes, offering a quick, creamy dish with a smoky, spicy flavor. It’s a great choice when you’re craving something both comforting and a little bold.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chipotle Mac and Cheese

Mexican Mac and Cheese

Mexican Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Mexican mac and cheese is a spicy, cheesy casserole that takes the classic comfort food in a bold new direction. Packed with peppers and gooey cheese, it’s a great dish for anyone craving something with a little heat.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Mac and Cheese

Loaded Mac and Cheese

Loaded Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Loaded mac and cheese is ready in just 35 minutes, combining crispy bacon and panko breadcrumbs with a creamy, cheesy base. It’s a great choice for a comforting, quick meal everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Instant Pot mac and cheese is a one-pot dish that’s both creamy and comforting, with just five ingredients. It’s an easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights and quick clean-up.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan mac and cheese with cashew sauce is a plant-based alternative that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. The crunchy panko topping adds an extra layer of texture to this comforting dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Stovetop Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Stovetop mac and cheese is the perfect solution when you’re craving something cheesy and gooey. With a rich sauce and tender pasta, this one-pot dish is simple to make and a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

One-pot turkey mac and cheese combines fresh ingredients like spinach and peppers with creamy cheddar cheese. It’s a quick, nutritious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Gluten-free butternut squash mac and cheese is a creamy dish with a flavorful breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for anyone craving comfort food with a nutritious twist.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese Without Milk

Mac and Cheese Without Milk. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

You don’t need milk to enjoy creamy mac and cheese! This recipe still offers the rich, cheesy comfort we all love and comes together in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese Without Milk

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan pumpkin mac and cheese is a dairy-free twist on the classic, using pumpkin puree and nutritional yeast for a creamy, savory dish. It’s a flavorful option that’s satisfying without any dairy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Air Fryer Mac And Cheese

Air Fryer Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer mac and cheese is quick, easy, and incredibly cheesy. It’s a fast way to enjoy your favorite comfort food with a crispy, gooey finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mac And Cheese

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer mac and cheese balls are a fun, crispy way to enjoy leftovers. These little bites are golden on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and make a great snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Pulled pork mac and cheese brings the flavors of smoky barbecue to a creamy mac and cheese base. It’s an irresistible combination that works well for casual dinners or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This stovetop Panera mac and cheese is ready in under 30 minutes, offering creamy, silky cheese sauce and tender pasta. It’s a great meal on its own or as a side to a larger dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese Bites

Mac and Cheese Bites. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer mac and cheese bites transform leftover mac and cheese into crispy, golden bites. These make a fun and delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese Bites

Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This classic mac and cheese features a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping that adds texture to the rich, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy, flavorful choice that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ninja Foodi Mac and Cheese

Ninja Foodi Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Ninja Foodi mac and cheese is made from scratch and offers a rich, cheesy sauce with minimal effort. It’s a great way to skip the boxed version and enjoy a truly homemade comfort food experience.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Foodi Mac and Cheese

Sausage Mac and Cheese

Sausage Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sausage mac and cheese is a hearty dish that combines a velvety, cheesy sauce with savory sausage. It’s a comforting meal that’s always a hit with both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese With Cream Cheese

Mac and Cheese With Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Mac and cheese with cream cheese takes comfort food to the next level with its creamy, rich texture. Using three types of cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that’s both creamy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese With Cream Cheese

Smoked Mac and Cheese w/ Bacon-Crumb Topping

Smoked Mac and Cheese w/ Bacon-Crumb Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked mac and cheese gives you a unique take on the classic dish with just the right amount of smoky flavor. It’s a creamy, comforting meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a new twist on a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac and Cheese w/ Bacon-Crumb Topping

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese adds a kick with hot sauce and juicy chicken, making it a great option for anyone who loves spicy flavors. It’s a rich and creamy dish that combines the best of both worlds.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

One Pot Taco Macaroni and Cheese

One Pot Taco Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Taco mac and cheese combines two favorite comfort foods into one, offering both Mexican and Italian flavors. This one-pot meal is quick to prepare and sure to please with its cheesy, spicy goodness.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Mexi Macaroni and Cheese

Mexi Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Adding spices to your mac and cheese can bring out bold, flavorful notes without making it too spicy. It’s an easy way to give your mac and cheese an extra punch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mexi Macaroni and Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Smoked gouda mac and cheese with pancetta brings a smoky depth of flavor to a classic comfort food. The creamy sauce and crispy pancetta create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta

Creamy Greek Yogurt Mac ‘n Cheese

Creamy Greek Yogurt Mac ‘n Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Greek yogurt mac and cheese gives you the comfort of traditional mac and cheese with a lighter twist. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a satisfying, healthier option.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Greek Yogurt Mac ‘n Cheese

Masala Mac and Cheese

Masala Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Masala mac and cheese is a flavorful twist on the traditional recipe, made quickly in the Instant Pot. The spices add a warm, bold flavor to the creamy dish, making it a fun new take on comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Masala Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potato mac and cheese uses pureed sweet potato to create a creamy, slightly sweet sauce. It’s a comforting dish with a touch of extra nutrition, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

3 Ingredient Mac and Cheese

3 Ingredient Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This slow cooker 3-ingredient mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish with minimal effort. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy comfort food without the hassle of making it from scratch.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Butternut squash mac and cheese gives you the creamy comfort you love, but with a boost of nutrition from the squash. It’s a delicious way to enjoy mac and cheese with a veggie twist.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Velveeta Mac and Cheese

Velveeta Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Velveeta mac and cheese made in the slow cooker is a creamy, cheesy dish with minimal effort. No need to pre-boil the pasta, making it super simple and perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Velveeta Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Instant Pot Creamy Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Instant Pot mac and cheese is a simple, family-friendly dish that’s quick to prepare and full of cheesy flavor. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you need comfort food in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Dutch oven mac and cheese features crispy bacon bits and creamy cheese sauce, making it a great dish for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The tender pasta shells and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

More Recipe Collections

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
    Potato And Sausage Chowder
  • Close-up of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
    Stuffed Pepper Soup
  • A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars
  • A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
    Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC