Tag: macaroni and cheese

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

Maybe, like you, I at first made a face when I came across the idea for macaroni and cheese pasta salad. But then, I thought, hey, I love mac-and-cheese. I love pasta salad. What I thought could be a crazy idea might well be brilliant. And it was. Traditional pasta salad flavors with a bit of cheddar cheese. I often cube cheddar cheese into my pasta salads, so the idea of using boxed mac and cheese really isn’t that much of a stretch. And it’s sure easier.

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

The Perfect Pasta Salad?

You can easily double this recipe for a family get-together. And I honestly wouldn’t be afraid to add a minced jalapeno or two to this macaroni and cheese pasta salad for a little kick. I also like to substitute chipotle powder or smoked paprika for the black pepper for a little smokiness.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you want to make mac-and-cheese, but not out of the box, try my 20-minute version. Love pimento cheese? It’s great in pasta salad too!

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad
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5 from 2 votes

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

Maybe, like you, I at first made a face when I came across the idea for macaroni and cheese pasta salad. But then, I thought, hey, I love mac-and-cheese. I love pasta salad.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword macaroni and cheese, pasta salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 134kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Plain Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil.
  • Add the pasta from the macaroni and cheese and cook per package instructions.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • In a large bowl combine the cheese packages from the mac and cheese and all of the remaining ingredients.
  • Fold in the pasta.
  • Cover and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
  • If the salad gets too thick add a bit more mayonnaise and stir lightly.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 231mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Macaroni-And-Cheese Muffins

These macaroni-and-cheese muffins would be great for a family gathering. They’re easy to make and taste fantastically cheesy! You can make a big, huge batch of them in no time. It might keep Uncle Henry from snagging all of the mac-and-cheese out of a dish. It’s a lot more obvious that you’re hogging them all when you have to stack 10 of these little round morsels onto your plate.

Macaroni-And-Cheese Muffins

Pop-In-Your-Mouth Goodness

Macaroni-and-cheese muffins are rather fun to eat too, just like my mac-and-cheese waffles. You can use your favorite mac-and-cheese recipe instead, if you like. Just watch the cook time because you might have to adjust it a bit. You want the macaroni to set up good in the tins.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Macaroni-And-Cheese Muffins
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4 from 1 vote

Macaroni-And-Cheese Muffins

These macaroni-and-cheese muffins would be great for a family gathering. They’re easy to make and taste fantastically cheesy! You can make a big, huge batch of them in no time.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, muffins
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 231kcal
Author Found on the web

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more for the pasta
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
  • 1 ½ cups Mozzarella cheese shredded
  • ½ cup bread crumbs seasoned
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Add pasta to a large pot of lightly salted boiling water and cook for 8 minutes.
  • Drain and return to the pot.
  • Add the butter and egg and stir until the butter is melted and the pasta is coated.
  • Add the milk, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese and all of the Mozzarella cheese and stir until the cheeses are melted.
  • Spray a muffin pan with non-stick spray.
  • Spoon in the pasta mixture.
  • Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  • In a small bowl combine 1/2 teaspoon of salt, the bread crumbs and olive oil.
  • Sprinkle over the tops of pasta.
  • Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes, letting the cheese set, before removing from the muffin tins to serve.

Notes

Use your favorite cheeses.

Nutrition

Calories: 231kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 46mg | Sodium: 334mg | Potassium: 119mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 324IU | Calcium: 212mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

I made a big ole batch of fire-eater chicken the other day. It has a really nice kick to it. Besides sandwiches and other great uses for the chicken, I made this insanely good fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese. It’s based on a Buffalo chicken mac-and-cheese recipe, so you know that it’s great. And you don’t have to use fire-eater chicken, any roasted (or rotisserie) chicken will do, but I highly recommend the kicked-up flavor of the fire-eater version.

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

Creamy Crunchy Spiciness

This fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese is creamy, like it should be. And crunchy, thanks to the celery and panko breadcrumbs. And it has a kick to it. Just like I like. We’ve all had the standard mac-and-cheese. It’s time to add some spice!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

I made this insanely good fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese. It’s based on a Buffalo chicken mac-and-cheese recipe, so you know that it’s great. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, spicy
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 844kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery finely chopped
  • 3 cups fire-eater chicken shredded or chopped , or substitute rotisserie chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup hot sauce or Buffalo wing sauce, divided
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons dry mustard
  • 2 ½ cups half-and-half
  • 1 pound extra sharp cheddar cheese cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 ounces pepper jack cheese shredded (about 2 cups)
  • â…” cup sour cream
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup blue cheese crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Salt a large pot of water and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 7 minutes.
  • Drain well.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the celery and onion.
  • Cook until soft, 5 minutes.
  • Add the chicken and garlic and cook 2 more minutes.
  • Add 1/2 cup of the hot or wing sauce and stir.
  • Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • In another small skillet or saucepan, melt 2 more tablespoons of the butter.
  • Whisk in the flour and mustard until smooth.
  • Slow pour in the half-and-half while whisking continuously.
  • Whisk in the remaining hot or wing sauce and simmer until the sauce starts to thicken.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses and sour cream until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
  • Pour half of the macaroni into the baking dish and spread out evenly.
  • Top with the chicken mixture.
  • Add the remaining macaroni.
  • Pour the cheese mixture over the top and spread out evenly.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter.
  • Add the panko, blue cheese and parsley.
  • Stir and pour evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture.
  • Bake 30-40 minutes or until bubbly hot.
  • Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for a nice kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 844kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 54g | Saturated Fat: 33g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 155mg | Sodium: 1324mg | Potassium: 430mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1666IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 802mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Oh I’ve made fru-fru mac-and-cheese before. Heck, I’ve made the stuff out of the box before. But ya know, this copycat KFC macaroni and cheese puts them all to shame. It’s crazy easy to make, like most stove-top versions. And it’s soooo creamy. And yummy. You can make an absolutely huge batch of this in no time and feed a crowd. Or you can keep it for yourself. It’s your call.

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Ok, So I Added Something…

Ok, the recipe for copycat KFC macaroni and cheese does not call for a light dusting of paprika before serving. That was my idea. You don’t have to do it. Or you can use cayenne for a little kick. I like putting a little something on top to add a little color or even a bit of heat. I’m quite sure the original version from Kentucky Fried Chicken had neither paprika or cayenne!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my copycat KFC bean salad.

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Oh I’ve made fru-fru mac-and-cheese before. Heck, I’ve made the stuff out of the box before. But ya know, this copycat KFC macaroni and cheese puts them all to shame. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, Kentucky Fried Chicken, KFC, mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 446kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring water to a boil over high heat in a medium saucepan.
  • Add pasta, stir, and cook 10-12 minutes until tender, stirring often.
  • Meanwhile, add remaining ingredients to a small saucepan over low heat.
  • Stir until melted and smooth.
  • When the macaroni is cooked, pour into a strainer and rinse with cold water.
  • Drain well then return it to the pasta pot.
  • Turn off the heat.
  • Stir in the cheese sauce and serve.

Notes

For a spicy version, substitute pepper jack cheese for the cheddar.

Nutrition

Calories: 446kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 943mg | Potassium: 331mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 576IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 394mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Civil War Macaroni-and-Cheese

Although not quite historically accurate, this Civil War macaroni-and-cheese is really quite good. I think the main reason that it tastes so good is that the pasta is cooked in milk instead of water. This gives it a creamier taste. Just like when you boil anything else, you need flavor in the water to make up for lost.

Civil War Macaroni-and-Cheese

A Few Words About The Real Deal

Apparently, elbow pasta, whole milk and cheddar cheese were not very common during the Civil War. But this recipe for Civil War macaroni-and-cheese is a close representation of what soldiers at the time would eat. Straight pasta, skim milk and Parmesan cheeses were more common then. Feel free to substitute!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my southwestern macaroni-and-cheese recipe.

Civil War Macaroni-and-Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Civil War Macaroni-and-Cheese

Although not quite historically accurate, this Civil War macaroni-and-cheese is really quite good. I think the main reason that it tastes so good is that the pasta is cooked in milk instead of water, giving it a creamier taste. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 419kcal
Author Found on the web

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F.
  • Heat the milk in a large pot until it begins to steam.
  • Stir in the pasta. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and making sure that the pot doesn’t foam over. The pasta should absorb almost all of the milk. Remove from heat.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt the butter. Add in the cheese, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese has melted. Pour mixture into the pot with the pasta. Stir and add salt, to taste.
  • Spray a 9" x 9" baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Add pasta mixture. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle with cayenne.
  • Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

Although not authentic, feel free to substitute a little pepper jack cheese for the cheddar for a nice kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 419kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 358mg | Potassium: 357mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 684IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 481mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Cholula Macaroni-and-Cheese

There are a thousand variations on macaroni-and-cheese, it seems. Rich. Creamy. Crunchy. And all sorts of different kinds of pasta. Well, if you’re a follower of this blog you know what we love Cholula hot sauce, often called Flavorful Fire. So it’s only natural then that we loved this Cholula macaroni-and-cheese. A little heat, but still that creaminess that makes mac-and-cheese soooo good.

Cholula Macaroni-and-Cheese

Life’s Not All About Elbow Mac

I like making mac-and-cheese with something other than elbow pasta (like wagon wheel pasta). People aren’t expecting it, and you’ll find that some pastas hold the cheese sauce better than others. The little wheel pastas I used in my Cholula macaroni-and-cheese trapped the sauce in yummy little spokes.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my pepperoni pizza mac and cheese.

This recipe is based on a recipe from Insane Chicken.

Cholula Macaroni-and-Cheese
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4 from 2 votes

Cholula Mac-and-Cheese

If you’re a follower of this blog you know what we love Cholula hot sauce, often called Flavorful Fire. So it’s only natural then that we loved this Cholula macaroni-and-cheese. A little heat, but still that creaminess that makes mac-and-cheese soooo good.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 472kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Insane Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375 F.
  • Cook pasta per package instructions. Drain.
  • Melt two tablespoons of the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisking constantly, stir in the flour, cooking for 1 minute.
  • While still whisking, add in the mustard, salt, white pepper, Cholula hot sauce, and in small amounts at a time, the milk.
  • Bring to a slow boil, still whisking, and boil for 1 minute until thickened.
  • Remove pan from the heat and stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
  • Add the pasta and gently stir to coat.
  • Pour mixture into a 2 quart baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick spray.
  • Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl in the microwave. Stir in the breadcrumbs and chili powder. Sprinkle mixture over the top of the mac-and-cheese.
  • Bake 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let rest 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute your favorite hot sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 472kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 872mg | Potassium: 334mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 902IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 611mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Cheese Fondue Mac-and-Cheese

Fondue. Mac-and-cheese. Two things that were destined to go together. You just know it is creamy, gooey, and super cheesy. Cheese fondue mac-and-cheese is what that weird orange stuff in the box at the grocery store dreams about being. There’s nothing but good stuff here. Nothing but flavor and creaminess. This is one delicious side dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. I did and do!

Cheese Fondue Mac-and-Cheese

The Cheese Takes The Stage

The best part of cheese fondue mac-and-cheese is definitely the cheese. Don’t skimp on the cheeses you use. Add good quality cheese and you’ll really enjoy the end result.

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

If you’re worried about the wine and serving this to children, I wouldn’t worry. The alcohol cooks off once the mixture comes to a boil. Now, whether or not you can get kids to eat this is another thing. It’s definitely not the ‘usual’.

Also try my pimento cheese fondue. No, it’s not mac-and-cheese but oh is it ever great fondue!

Cheese Fondue Mac-and-Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cheese Fondue Mac-and-Cheese

Fondue. Mac-and-cheese. Two things that were destined to go together. You just know it is creamy, gooey, and super cheesy.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cheesy, mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 462kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Elle’s New England Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Cook pasta per package instructions, removing from heat 1-2 minutes before being completely done. You want the pasta to be a little al dente.
  • Melt the butter in a large sauce pan.
  • Add the garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute while continuing to whisk.
  • Remove from heat and milk and wine and stir.
  • Return to heat and bring back to a boil. Whisk for another minute while boiling.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted.
  • Add the pasta to the pan and toss until well coated.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Pour pasta mixture into dish, spreading out evenly.
  • Sprinkle top with Panko.
  • Bake 35-40 minutes or until the mixture is golden brown and is bubbly hot.

Notes

Sure, you can substitute any cheeses you want!

Nutrition

Calories: 462kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 954mg | Potassium: 301mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 186IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 146mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

All-American Mac-and-Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac-and-cheese? I’ve certainly made lots of variations on the classic, from a Cholula mac, to pepperoni pizza mac, fondue mac, to roasted garlic and thyme mac. I decided to go a more traditional route. Loaded with cheese, my All-American Mac-and-Cheese is just flat-out cheesy. And it has a little twist at the end to boot.

All-American Mac-and-Cheese

Add A Little Kick

You don’t have to sprinkle your All-American Mac-and-Cheese with cayenne pepper, though I do recommend it. Leave it off entirely or try a little dusting of paprika instead. I think it adds a nice (needed) contrast to the tons of (yummy) creamy cheesiness. Otherwise you end up with a big ole bowl of yellow orange. Sure, it’s tasty yellow orange, but life (and mac and cheese) needs a little kick so add some!

Reheating Leftovers

If I end up with leftovers, I warm them up on the stovetop with a few splashes of milk (not the evaporated stuff, the stuff from the carton). And I might add a pat or two of butter. It helps the sauce get creamy again.

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my 20-minute mac-and-cheese.

All-American Mac-and-Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

All-American Mac-and-Cheese

Loaded with cheese, my All-American Mac-and-Cheese is just flat-out cheesy. And it has a little twist at the end to boot.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 563kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the macaroni.
  • Continue boiling until the pasta is al dente. Drain, but reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour, mustard powder and cayenne. Continue whisking for 1 minute.
  • Whisk in the evaporated milk and continue stirring until thick, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the cheeses and stir until melted.
  • Add the pasta and stir. If the mixture is too thick add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
  • Heat through and season with salt and pepper.

Notes

You might have to add a bit of milk or water to the mac-and-cheese when reheating if it’s too thick.

Nutrition

Calories: 563kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 592mg | Potassium: 483mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 861IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 627mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

20-Minute Mac-and-Cheese

Yes, I used to make macaroni and cheese from a box. That was long ago. Now I usually make a totally different take on mac-and-cheese, like my favorite, fire eater chicken macaroni and cheese. But sometimes I just don’t have the time (or ingredients). That’s when this 20-minute mac-and-cheese version comes in real handy. Like the name says, it doesn’t take long to make and it comes out just as ooey and gooey as you’d expect (and want).

20-Minute Mac-and-Cheese

How To Re-Heat any Leftovers

Add a couple pinches of cayenne if you want a little kick in your 20-minute mac-and-cheese. If you have any leftovers, just warm them up in a pot on the stovetop. I like to add a few splashes of milk and a little butter to help break up the pasta as it tends to stick together after spending a night in the fridge. It helps keep the mac nice and creamy good!

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

For something totally different, try my macaroni-and-cheese salad. Yes, salad.

20-Minute Mac-and-Cheese
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4 from 1 vote

20-Minute Mac-and-Cheese

This 20-minute mac-and-cheese version comes in real handy. Like the name says, it doesn’t take long to make and it comes out just as ooey and gooey as you’d expect (and want).
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 520kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt
  • 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup heavy cream half-and-half also works well
  • 1 ounce cream cheese at room temperature
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ½ cup extra sharp Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2-4 slices American cheese

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain.
  • Meanwhile, heat cream in a large skillet.
  • Add cream cheese and salt and stir until cheese is melted.
  • Add cheddar and American cheeses and stir until melted.
  • Add cooked pasta and stir to coat well.
  • Note: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
  • Note: If you want a little crunch, sprinkle the top of the mac with panko breadcrumbs and place under the broiler for a few minutes until golden brown. Make sure you use a skillet that can stand the heat, such as a cast iron skillet.

Notes

I recommend not using any ‘light’ ingredients in this recipe for the creamiest, cheesiest mac-and-cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 457mg | Potassium: 199mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1211IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 268mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

I think the title pretty much says it all. Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese. It’s all of your favorite things in one dish. Insanely gooey good stuff. Even without the pepperoni, this is crazy good macaroni and cheese. I didn’t use to think tomato and mac were a bad idea. A bad combination. But the tomato adds a nice flavor, a little juicy goodness, that’s not expected but needed!

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

Not The Same-Old Same-Old Dish

I would not be afraid to add more pepperoni the next time I make this pepperoni pizza mac and cheese. There’s no need to go half in on this. Plain old mac and cheese is pretty decadent to begin with and this is definitely not ‘plain old’.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my skillet sausage mac and cheese.

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

I think the title pretty much says it all. Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese. It’s all of your favorite things in one dish. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, pepperoni, pizza
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 182kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Cassie Johnston at Back to Her Roots

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Cook pasta per package instructions. Drain well.
  • Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour, and continue whisking for 3 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to low.
  • While whisking, add in the milk. The mixture will thicken.
  • Add the oregano, basil and parsley and stir.
  • Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Remove pan from heat and stir in the cottage cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted.
  • Stir in the pepperoni and tomato and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Fold in the pasta.
  • Pour mixture into the baking dish and spread out evenly with a spatula.
  • Sprinkle top with the breadcrumbs.
  • Bake 20 minutes or until bubbling hot and browned on top.

Notes

You can also make this using elbow pasta.

Nutrition

Calories: 182kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 720mg | Potassium: 308mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 521IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 214mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)