9 Mac and Cheese Recipe for Dinner
“9 Mac and Cheese Recipes for Dinner” offers a variety of creative and comforting takes on the classic dish. From creamy stovetop versions to baked options with crispy toppings, these recipes cater to all tastes, including variations with bacon, vegetables, and unique cheeses, perfect for cozy dinners.
Classic Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This traditional mac and cheese features a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and a smooth, velvety texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any dinner or gathering.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$6-$8
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Baking dish (if baking)
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Mustard powder (optional): ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Slowly add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and stir until well coated.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For an extra creamy texture, add cream cheese or whole milk instead of 2% milk.
Baked Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This baked mac and cheese recipe features a crispy, golden topping made from breadcrumbs and extra cheese. Perfect for those who love their mac and cheese with a crunchy texture.
Servings:
6 servings
Estimated Cost:
$8-$10
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
40 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 3 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp
- Milk: 3 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Parmesan cheese (grated): ½ cup
- Bread crumbs: 1 cup
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, then gradually add milk to form a thick sauce.
- Stir in the cheeses, salt, and pepper until melted.
- Combine with cooked pasta and place in a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
Add cooked bacon bits or chopped herbs to the breadcrumb topping for extra flavor.
Spicy Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
A twist on the classic, this spicy mac and cheese features jalapeños and hot sauce for a deliciously zesty flavor. It’s perfect for spice lovers who want an extra kick with their creamy mac and cheese.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$7-$9
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Jalapeño (sliced): 1
- Hot sauce: 1-2 tbsp (to taste)
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook macaroni and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour.
- Gradually add milk, then stir in shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in sliced jalapeños and hot sauce.
- Combine with the cooked macaroni and stir well to coat.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For a smokier flavor, add chipotle pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce.
Vegan Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This vegan mac and cheese is made with cashews and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free cheese sauce. It’s the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional mac and cheese.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$7-$9
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
25 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American, Vegan
Required Equipment:
- Blender or food processor
- Pot for boiling pasta
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Raw cashews: ½ cup
- Water: 1 cup
- Nutritional yeast: ¼ cup
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Turmeric (for color): ½ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook macaroni and set aside.
- Blend cashews, water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and turmeric until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over cooked macaroni and stir until fully coated.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
Add roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
I will continue with the rest of the recipes in a second response!
Bacon Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This bacon mac and cheese recipe combines crispy bacon with creamy cheese sauce for a savory, smoky twist on the classic. A perfect addition for bacon lovers!
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$8-$10
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Frying pan for bacon
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Bacon: 4 strips
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the pasta and set aside.
- Fry bacon strips until crispy, then chop into pieces.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in the flour.
- Gradually add milk and stir in the shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked bacon and pasta, stirring until well combined.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For extra smokiness, use smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika.
BBQ Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
BBQ mac and cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy cheese and tangy barbecue sauce. It’s perfect for those who love both comfort food and BBQ flavors.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$7-$9
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American, BBQ
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- BBQ sauce: ¼ cup
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the macaroni and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
- Slowly add milk, then stir in the shredded cheddar, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and stir well.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
Top with extra BBQ sauce or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Creamy Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This ultra-creamy mac and cheese is a dream for cheese lovers, made with a combination of cheddar, cream cheese, and heavy cream for an indulgent texture.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$8-$10
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 1 cup
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Cream cheese: 4 oz
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the pasta and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
- Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper until melted.
- Combine the sauce with pasta and stir until creamy.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For extra richness, use all cream instead of milk, or add a pinch of garlic powder.
Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
This gluten-free mac and cheese is made with gluten-free pasta and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for those who are sensitive to gluten but still want to enjoy a comforting, indulgent dish.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$8-$10
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
30 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American, Gluten-Free
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Gluten-free elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Mustard powder (optional): ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in the gluten-free flour to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until melted.
- Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta, stirring well.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For added flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or Gruyère.
Lobster Mac and Cheese Dinner Recipe
Summary of the Recipe:
Lobster mac and cheese elevates the classic dish with succulent lobster meat, adding a touch of luxury to the creamy, cheesy pasta. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet twist on a comfort food classic.
Servings:
4 servings
Estimated Cost:
$20-$25
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
35 minutes
Course:
Dinner
Cuisines:
American, Seafood
Required Equipment:
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Frying pan for cooking lobster
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients and Their Quantity:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Heavy cream: ½ cup
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 1 ½ cups
- Parmesan cheese (grated): ½ cup
- Cooked lobster meat (chopped): 1 cup
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Instructions in Steps:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a frying pan, cook the lobster meat until just tender and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Fold in the cooked lobster and pasta, stirring until fully combined.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Additional Notes/Tips:
For an extra decadent dish, top with a breadcrumb mixture and bake for a crispy topping. You can also drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for added freshness.
These recipes offer variations on the classic mac and cheese, with the Gluten-Free version catering to dietary needs and the Lobster Mac and Cheese giving a luxurious twist!
