Mac ’N’ Cheese 3 Ways
Add unexpected ingredients to basic mac ’n’ cheese to create a truly mouthwatering meal.
Reinvent a family favorite! Start with this basic mac ’n’ cheese recipe, and then add unexpected ingredients like spicy chorizo or wholesome roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded, filling and hearty meal.

Basic Mac ’n’ Cheese
Serves: 4 to 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk*
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup bread crumbs**
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
*For a rich and creamy sauce, use whole or 2 percent milk. Substitute skim milk to make a thinner, reduced-fat version.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 F
- In large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter
- Add flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly
- Add milk and whisk gently until smooth
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened
- Season with salt and pepper
- In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, toss pasta with sauce
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan, and then sprinkle with bread crumbs and parsley
- Bake until crust is golden brown and crispy, about 15 minutes
Tip: For a quick but thorough cleanup, wash up your saucepan and utensils in the dishwasher with a Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPac.
3 Ideas for a gourmet Mac ’n’ Cheese
For a fresh take on mac ’n’ cheese, start with our basic recipe, and then switch it up with these ingredient combinations:
Southwest
Add flavor and flair with zesty ingredients like ground chorizo and jalapeños.
Ingredients (add to recipe above)
2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked chorizo*
1 can (15 ounces) corn
1 can (4 ounces) chopped jalapenos
1 small red onion, chopped
Chili powder to taste
*For a vegetarian version, use 1 can (15 ounces) of drained black beans.
Florentine
Add fresh and flavorful ingredients inspired by the cuisine of Italy.
Ingredients
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
6 ounces prosciutto, coarsely chopped
Pinch of basil, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté garlic cloves in olive oil
- Add spinach and sauté until wilted, about 5 minutes
- Add Mozzarella cheese and prosciutto
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil
Rustic
For a healthier meal, incorporate roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
1 red onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine onion, bell pepper, zucchini and mushrooms and spread in a shallow roasting pan
- Toss with olive oil and salt and pepper
- Roast at 400 F, occasionally tossing, until tender, about 45 minutes
- Mix vegetables in with pasta, sauce and cheese
While these are our favorite ways to refresh mac ’n’ cheese, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with cuisines and ingredients you love – you’re sure to discover a scrumptious combination you adore!
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