12 Mac and Cheese Recipes with a Twist
Mac and cheese is the kind of comfort food that feels right on a holiday table, but it’s just as welcome for a cozy family dinner or potluck any time of year. Around Christmas, a richer or more unexpected version can make an easy meal feel a little special without turning dinner into a production.
Here are 12 recipes that take the familiar favorite in different directions, with fresh flavors, ingredients, and ways to serve it. Whether you’re planning holiday cooking or looking for a new go-to macaroni and cheese, there’s plenty of inspiration to choose from.
Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
Tini’s mac and cheese is an absolute dream and a Thanksgiving classic. Three kinds of cheese and corkscrew pasta are a match made in heaven.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
We can't get enough of this easy but elegant Truffle Mac and Cheese recipe that's so creamy and cheesy, with a hint of truffle flavor.
Pumpkin Gouda Mac and Cheese
This pumpkin gouda mac and cheese is holiday-worthy without the fuss. No roux and no baking required and it takes 25 minutes to make.
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese is decadent, rich, and the ultimate creamy comfort food! This recipe has FOUR cheeses making it super savory. So easy to make at home, you won’t want to bother with overpriced restaurants again!
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
This slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is a cozy Thanksgiving side dish with a smooth, cheesy sauce and make-ahead tips for easier entertaining.
Individual Mac N Cheese Cups (with bacon!)
Enjoy the glorious crispy edges and gooey centres of these bacon-laden individual mac n cheese cups. Check out the recipe.
Baked Mac and Cheese
This creamy Baked Mac and Cheese has a rich 3-cheese sauce with cheddar, Gruyère, and Gouda. An easy, make-ahead favorite for holidays and family dinners!
Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Baked Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a little spicy, ultra-creamy, cheesy, rich comfort food that can be made in 30 minutes.
Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
These Baked Mac and Cheese Bites, enrobed in panko on top and bottom, are crunchy, creamy, and utterly addictive. I’ve engineered the recipe to deliver flawless texture, big flavor, and a guaranteed no-fail method. Follow along for step-by-step photos, helpful tips, delicious variations, and everything you need to make these Mac and Cheese Bites a…
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the perfect finger food appetizer that uses minimal ingredients. Bite into a crispy coating and get a tasty mouthful of creamy mac and cheese.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Cauliflower mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and comforting made with cauliflower, creamy cheese sauce, and baked with more cheese on top.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Creamy butternut squash mac and cheese made with elbow macaroni, cheddar, and blended squash for a veggie-packed twist. An easy 30-minute one-pot dinner.
Choosing mac and cheese for Christmas Eve
Think about when you want to do the work. A slow cooker recipe can free up the oven, while a baked version gives you a crisp top and a dish you can bring straight to the table. Stovetop recipes are useful when you want dinner ready quickly, and individual cups make the dish easier to serve as part of a buffet.
Make it part of an easy Christmas Eve menu
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For a relaxed meal at home, pair a mac and cheese recipe with a simple salad or vegetable and a dessert you can make ahead. See my easy family Christmas Eve dinner ideas for more low-effort mains and desserts. If you are expecting people at different times, the Christmas Eve grazing buffet guide explains how to serve a couple of warm dishes alongside room-temperature options.
Hello, I’m Luci, founder of Mums Make Lists. The site is full of useful and fun ideas for life and seasonal celebrations. Plus a growing selection of instantly downloadable fun printables and party planners. Read more.