Mac and Cheese – The “Go-To” for Comfort Food

There are thousands of mac and cheese recipes out there on the internet. What are the best ones? That’s a highly subjective question, isn’t it? Let’s take a look at a few different recipes that stand out:

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

My tastebuds tell me that the most decadent version is Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. During the COVID lockdown, I spent a lot of time with my daughter and her family, and we discovered Salty Marshmallow’s Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. It quickly became a staple of our comfort food rotation. Nichole’s recipe uses three kinds of cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Whenever I could, I’d use Tillamook cheese because it’s simply the best!

Sally McKenney’s Company-Worthy Mac and Cheese

No Instant Pot?  This one looks good:  Sally McKenney’s Company-Worthy Mac and Cheese.   When the first ingredient listed is bacon, need I say more?  This recipe has 5 cups of shredded cheese and uses both whole milk and half-and-half.    Sally recommends Sharp white cheddar and gouda.  And just in case you feel a little guilty and want this recipe just a little bit healthy?  She adds 3 cups of fresh spinach.  This is an optional ingredient, but I say, why not!? 

Hunter Fieri’s Mexican Mac-n-Cheese

For some South-of-the-border comfort, give Hunter Fieri’s Mexican Mac-n-Cheese a try.  With  cumin, chili powder and cayenne pepper, this mac and cheese is full of flavor.    He also throws in some corn and a red pepper for a little texture.   He suggests garnishing with cotija cheese but I prefer queso fresco. 

Real Italian Mac and Cheese

Since I went a bit international with the South-of-the-border mac and cheese, how about an Italian mac and cheese.  What makes a mac and cheese Italian, you ask.  Well, Chef Vincent DelGiudice thinks it’s Real Italian Mac and Cheese made with provolone, mozzarella, parm and fontina with pancetta – and I whole-heartedly agree.   With 885 calories per serving, this definitely qualifies as comfort food.   Mr. DelGiudice gives great cooking tips, too. 

Homemade Mac and Cheese

For a quick recipe with ingredients you most likely  already have on hand?  Homemade Mac and Cheese from theKitchn.com.    This recipe definitely qualifies as a comfort food with it’s whopping pound and a half of cheese.  You can use whole milk, half-and-half or a combination of both.  With just 7 ingredients, this recipe is straightforward. 

Now it’s your turn—what’s your go-to mac and cheese recipe? Do you keep it simple with a classic stovetop version, or do you go all out with specialty cheeses and creative add-ins? Let’s hear your cheesy secrets!