Comfort Food

Comfort Food

41 Crazy Delicious Ways to Eat Mac and Cheese

Updated on February 27, 2018 by by Food Network Canada Editors

Whether baked, deep fried or turned into a soup, try some of our craziest and tastiest recipes for everyone's comfort food favourite: mac and cheese.

  • Spanish Mac & Cheese with Chorizo
     
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    Spanish Mac & Cheese with Chorizo

    <p>Lynn Crawford gives crowd-pleasing mac and cheese Spanish flair, for comfort food with a welcome twist. This recipe proves it’s possible to upgrade the already-best mac and cheese recipe ever thanks to the addition of smoked paprika, chorizo and garlic.<p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/food-network-canada-chef-school/recipe/spanish-mac-and-cheese-with-chorizo/21280/" target="_blank">Lynn Crawford’s Spanish Mac & Cheese with Chorizo</a></strong></p>
  • Macaroni and Cheese Carbonara
     
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    Macaroni and Cheese Carbonara

    <p>Mac and cheese has never been as inviting as it is in this carbonara-style version that takes it to a whole new level of melty deliciousness.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bobby-flays-macaroni-and-cheese-carbonara/11491/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Macaroni and Cheese Carbonara</a></strong></p>
  • Sloppy Joe & Mac'n Cheese Bread Bowl
     
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    Sloppy Joe & Mac'n Cheese Bread Bowl

    <p>This recipe is the definition of comfort food; homemade sloppy Joes in a hollowed-out Kaiser bun are topped with creamy macaroni and cheese.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sloppy-joe-and-macn-cheese-bread-bowl/13831/"><strong>Sloppy Joe &amp; Mac'n Cheese Bread Bowl</strong></a></p>
  • Ketchup Chip Mac and Cheese Balls
     
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    Ketchup Chip Mac and Cheese Balls

    <p>Quintessentially Canadian, the sweet, vinegary taste of a ketchup chip isn’t for everyone — but its fans find it strangely addictive. Turn chips into a more substantial appetizer with these deep-fried macaroni and cheese balls that feature a crispy outer crust and gooey centre. Bet you can’t eat just one.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/ketchup-chip-mac-n-cheese-balls/19791/" target="_blank"><strong>Ketchup Chip Mac and Cheese Balls</strong></a></p>
  • Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
     
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    Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

    <p>Take regular macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding Fall favourites like butternut squash, onions, nutmeg and fresh thyme.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/30-minute-meals/recipe/butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese/17156/" target="_blank"><strong>Rachael Ray's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole
     
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    Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole

    <p>The rich, spicy flavour of Indian butter chicken is combined with the creamy goodness of mac ‘n’ cheese for a baked casserole that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butter-chicken-mac-and-cheese-casserole/19828/" target="_blank"><strong>Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Bacon Ramen-oni and Cheese
     
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    Bacon Ramen-oni and Cheese

    <p>This deadly combination of good ol' mac and cheese and ramen noodles makes for a creamy, cheesy Canadian-inspired meal your family will happily devour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-ramen-oni-and-cheese/18839/" target="_blank"><strong>Bacon Ramen-oni and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Mac n' Me Crazy Cheese Balls
     
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    Mac n' Me Crazy Cheese Balls

    <p>Delicious topped with grated Parmesan cheese and served with fresh marinara (or ketchup, if you prefer!), these fried-until-crispy mac and cheese balls are beyond satisfying.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mac-n-me-crazy-cheese-balls/14892/" target="_blank"><strong>Mac n' Me Crazy Cheese Balls</strong></a></p>
  • Peameal Bacon Mac and Cheese
     
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    Peameal Bacon Mac and Cheese

    <p>We didn't think mac and cheese baked with a crispy bread crumb topping could get any tastier — until peameal bacon came along! </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/the-best-peameal-bacon-mac-and-cheese/" target="_blank"><strong>Peameal Bacon Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Mac 'n' Cheese Meatloaf Hoagie
     
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    Mac 'n' Cheese Meatloaf Hoagie

    <p>Can it get any more comforting than this? Glazed meatloaf on top of creamy mac and cheese nestled in a hoagie bun. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mac-n-cheese-meatloaf-hoagie/14378/"><strong>Mac 'n' Cheese Meatloaf Hoagie</strong></a></p>
  • Macaroni and Cheese
     
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    Macaroni and Cheese

    <p>Take your everyday mac n&#039; cheese to new heights with this delicious version using creamy bechamel sauce and breadcrumb crust. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/macaroni-and-cheese/14334/"><strong>Macaroni and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Braided Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Roll
     
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    Braided Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Roll

    <p>As decadent as it gets, this cheesy, beefy, buttery pastry roll will be the star of the show at your next party. Don’t be intimidated by the braiding, we promise it’s easy!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/braided-cheeseburger-mac-and-cheese-roll/18828/" target="_blank"><strong>Braided Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Roll</strong></a></p>
  • Macaroni and Cheese, Indian-Style
     
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    Macaroni and Cheese, Indian-Style

    <p>Kick your everyday macaroni and cheese up a notch with this easy recipe, using Indian spices for extra flavour. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/macaroni-and-cheese-indian-style/13084/"><strong>Macaroni and Cheese, Indian-Style</strong></a></p>
  • Pork Belly Mac & Cheese
     
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    Pork Belly Mac & Cheese

    <p>Dive into decadence with this homemade macaroni and cheese with pork belly and roasted cauliflower.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pork-belly-mac-and-cheese/14355/"><strong>Pork Belly Mac &amp; Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Macaroni and Cheese Soup
     
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    Macaroni and Cheese Soup

    <p>Re-make this classic meal as a delectable soup. Guaranteed to be a hit at your table. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/macaroni-and-cheese-soup/14121/"><strong>Macaroni and Cheese Soup</strong></a></p>
  • Buffalo Chicken Mac 'n' Cheese
     
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    Buffalo Chicken Mac 'n' Cheese

    <p>Combine comforting, creamy mac and cheese with the addictive flavour of Buffalo wings, and you're got yourself a winning Sunday night meal the whole family will love.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buffalo-chicken-mac-n-cheese/17915/" target="_blank"><strong>Buffalo Chicken Mac 'n' Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Bacon Mac n' Cheese
     
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    Bacon Mac n' Cheese

    <p>Crunchy, smoky, creamy homemade mac n&#039; cheese is even better when you add bacon. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-mac-n-cheese/12075/"><strong>Michael Smith's Bacon Mac n' Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Smoked White Cheddar Macaroni
     
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    Smoked White Cheddar Macaroni

    <p>An out-of-this-world take on mac and cheese, this delectable dish is packed with crispy smoked bacon, onions and tomatoes, with a heaping amount of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/smoked-white-cheddar-macaroni/10090/" target="_blank"><strong>Matt Dunigan's Smoked White Cheddar Macaroni</strong></a></p>
  • Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
     
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    Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

    <p> Found on diner menus everywhere next to staples such as pot pies and casseroles, this go-to favourite gets the vegan treatment by going deliciously cheese-free. <p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/creamy-vegan-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese</a></strong> </p>
  • Tuna Melt Mac ‘n’ Cheese
     
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    Tuna Melt Mac ‘n’ Cheese

    <p>Leftover canned tuna gives creamy, homemade mac and cheese a hearty boost. You’ll love the way it pairs with sharp Parmesan and melty Gruyère.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tuna-melt-mac-n-cheese/15734/" target="_blank"><strong>Rachael Ray’s Tuna Melt Mac ‘n’ Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Pimento Cheese and Bacon Macaroni
     
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    Pimento Cheese and Bacon Macaroni

    <p>Cheesy macaroni and crispy bacon are a match made in lunch heaven — especially when kids are involved.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pimento-cheese-and-bacon-macaroni/15789/"><strong>Pimento Cheese and Bacon Macaroni</strong></a></p>
  • Bacon and Jalapeño Stovetop Mac 'n' Cheese
     
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    Bacon and Jalapeño Stovetop Mac 'n' Cheese

    <p>Since everything tastes exponentially better with bacon, we’ve added a generous dose of the salty pork along with some chopped jalapeños for a variation of stovetop mac 'n' cheese you won't be able to resist.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-and-jalapeno-stovetop-mac-n-cheese/15286/" target="_blank"><strong>Bacon and Jalapeño Stovetop Mac 'n' Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Beer Cheese and Mac
     
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    Beer Cheese and Mac

    <p>Amber ale gives this creamy, baked mac and cheese a boost of flavour that sets this comfort food favourite apart from anything else.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beer-cheese-and-mac/18698/" target="_blank"><strong>Damaris Phillips’ Beer Cheese and Mac</strong></a></p>
  • Ina Garten’s Mac and Cheese
     
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    Ina Garten’s Mac and Cheese

    <p>It’s true that this dish isn’t exactly what we’d call light summer food, but who can say no to a scoop of mac ‘n’ cheese alongside their barbecue? Ina Garten’s version is accented with fresh tomato slices for an extra dose of summer. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-mac-and-cheese/15431/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Mac and Cheese</a></strong></p>
  • Quick Shells and Cheese
     
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    Quick Shells and Cheese

    <p>If you're looking for quick-fix dinners, whip up this mouth-watering take on macaroni and cheese that is sure to please the whole family.</p> <p>Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-shells-and-cheese/15587/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Quick Shells and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Giada's Macaroni and Cheese
     
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    Giada's Macaroni and Cheese

    <p>This classic feel-good food features three kinds of cheese, diced ham, tender egg noodles and fresh parsley.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/giadas-macaroni-and-cheese/15485/" target="_blank"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' Macaroni and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Bacon Mac n' Cheese
     
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    Bacon Mac n' Cheese

    <p>Crunchy, smoky and creamy, this homemade bacon mac n' cheese, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust is sure to be a hit at your next Sunday dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-mac-n-cheese/12075/" target="_blank"><strong>Michael Smith's Bacon Mac n' Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
     
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    Lobster Macaroni and Cheese

    <p>Make your ordinary mac and cheese extraordinary with succulent chunks of lobster and buttery, crisp breadcrumbs.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lobster-macaroni-and-cheese/5762/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Lobster Macaroni and Cheese</a></strong></p>
  • Lobster Mac & Cheese
     
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    Lobster Mac & Cheese

    <p>Rich lobster and creamy, cheesy mornay sauce are the perfect combination, proving seafood and cheese DO belong together.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lobster-mac-and-cheese/12354/"><strong>Lobster Mac &amp; Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Gypsy Queen Mac & Cheese Cone with Bacon Bling
     
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    Gypsy Queen Mac & Cheese Cone with Bacon Bling

    <p>Mac and cheese is stuffed into a waffle cone then topped with a saucy bacon barbecue sauce.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/gypsy-queen-mac-and-cheese-cone-with-bacon-bling/12582/"><strong>Gypsy Queen Mac &amp; Cheese Cone with Bacon Bling</strong></a></p>
  • Creamy Stove-Top Mac and Cheese
     
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    Creamy Stove-Top Mac and Cheese

    <p>One pot is all you need to whip up this creamy, cheesy mac and cheese loaded with cream cheese for smoothness and cheddar for some sharp flavour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/creamy-stove-top-mac-and-cheese/15690/" target="_blank"><strong>Nancy Fuller's Creamy Stove-Top Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Bacon and Brussels Sprout Mac and Cheese
     
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    Bacon and Brussels Sprout Mac and Cheese

    <p>Brussels sprouts aren’t typically the most popular offering on the table, but this dish will have your guests begging for more. The sprouts combined with smoky bacon jazz up your regular mac and cheese for a meal your kids will love.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-and-brussels-sprout-mac-and-cheese/15040/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Bacon and Brussels Sprout Mac and Cheese</a></strong></p>
  • Tomato Mac and Cheese with Italian Sausage
     
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    Tomato Mac and Cheese with Italian Sausage

    <p>This casserole is bursting with flavour from fresh herbs, gooey cheese, tomatoes and spicy Italian sausage.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tomato-mac-and-cheese-with-italian-sausage/10456/" target="_blank"><strong>Michael Smith's Tomato Mac and Cheese with Italian Sausage</strong></a></p>
  • Cheesy Mac 'N Rib
     
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    Cheesy Mac 'N Rib

    <p>Mac and cheese with pulled pork, stuffed between two crispy, buttery slices of bread? Genius. </p><p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cheesy-mac-n-rib/11766/" target="_blank"><strong>Cheesy Mac 'N Rib</strong></a></p>
  • The Maine Mac and Cheese
     
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    The Maine Mac and Cheese

    <p>Take a trip to the East coast with this seafood macaroni that's packed with chunks of fresh lobster, then served inside a lobster tail.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-maine-mac-and-cheese/18620/" target="_blank"><strong>The Maine Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Red Carpet Mac and Cheese
     
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    Red Carpet Mac and Cheese

    <p>Make your mac and cheese classy with squid ink zebra tagliatelle, topped with mushrooms, tons of cheese and fresh herbs for a pop of colour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/red-carpet-mac-and-cheese/18619/" target="_blank"><strong>Red Carpet Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Baked Mac-n-Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Duck Sausage
     
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    Baked Mac-n-Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Duck Sausage

    <p>Featuring a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce, crispy pancetta and juicy lobster all packed into a light, fluffy bun, this comfort food creation is sure to satisfy.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mac-and-cheese-lobster-roll/18114/" target="_blank"><strong>Mac &amp; Cheese Lobster Roll</strong></a></p>
  • Godzilla Mac and Cheese
     
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    Godzilla Mac and Cheese

    <p>A truly creative and delicious dish, this Japanese-inspired mac and cheese is topped with nori, teriyaki sauce and drizzled with Japanese mayo. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/godzilla-mac-and-cheese/14105/" target="_blank"><strong>Godzilla Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Baked Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes
     
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    Baked Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes

    <p>Macaroni and cheese as an appetizer? You bet! These baked mac and cheese cups are the perfect choice for a comfort-food holiday appetizer.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-macaroni-and-cheese-cupcakes/20448/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Baked Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes</a></strong></p>
  • Buffalo Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese
     
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    Buffalo Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese

    <p>Lightened up but still full of flavour, this Buffalo wing <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/16-wacky-ways-to-eat-mac-and-cheese/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mac and cheese</a> replaces meat with cauliflower for a vegetarian take on the classic combo.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buffalo-cauliflower-baked-mac-and-cheese/20010/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Buffalo Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese</strong></a></p>
  • Lobster Mac 'n' Cheese Squares
     
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    Lobster Mac 'n' Cheese Squares

    <p>Cubes of creamy lobster mac and cheese are breaded and pan-fried until golden and crispy. These squares of bite-sized holiday decadence make the perfect party appetizer that will disappear in a snap.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lobster-mac-n-cheese-squares/22249/" target="_blank"><strong>Anna Olson's Lobster Mac 'n' Cheese Squares</strong></a></p>
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