Mac and cheese isn’t just for kids or nostalgia trips—these 10 recipes are shaking up the classic in ways that would make even grandma take notice. We’re adding ingredients like sweet potatoes and using methods that simplify cooking to give you creamy, cheesy goodness every time. Dive into these modern classics that are sure to impress at any family gathering or a quiet dinner at home.
![A picture of baked cauliflower mac and cheese in cast iron skillet on wooden table.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/baked-Mac-and-cheese-1600x900-1-1024x576.jpg)
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese
![Greek yogurt mac and cheese with peas and bacon in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/greek-yogurt-mac-and-cheese-landscape-1.jpg)
This Greek yogurt mac and cheese is a healthier spin on the classic. It’s creamy and packs a punch of flavor, perfect for making grandma jealous of your kitchen skills.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
![Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/turkey-skillet-mac-and-cheese-landscape-1.jpg)
This turkey mac and cheese cooks in one pot and is ready in 30 minutes. It’s loaded with veggies and real cheddar, making it a great choice for a hearty meal that would impress grandma.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese
Sausage Mac and Cheese
![A bowl of macaroni and cheese with sausage and parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sausage-mac-and-cheese-MSN-1.jpg)
This sausage mac and cheese is smooth and full of flavor, a sure hit at any table. It’s so good, even grandma might ask you for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese
Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sweet-potato-mac-and-cheese.jpg)
Made with sweet potatoes and a mix of cheeses, this mac and cheese is creamy with a hint of sweetness. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying a classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
![A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/crock-pot-mac-and-cheese-10.jpg)
Toss your ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do the work. This mac and cheese comes out rich and creamy, the perfect way to compete with grandma’s cooking.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Slow Cooker Chili Mac
![Cheese covered slow cooker chili mac in the crock pot with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/slow-cooker-chili-mac-18-2-edited.jpg)
This slow cooker chili mac mixes the best of both worlds: chili and mac and cheese. It’s a hearty, cheesy meal that cooks itself, and it’s great for days when you need a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Mozzarella and White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
![Close up of macaroni and cheese with a breadcrumb and parsley topping in a white bowl with a green linen on a wood cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/58.jpg)
This dish blends mozzarella and white cheddar under a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. It’s a fresh take on mac and cheese that grandma will definitely notice.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella and White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Skillet Bacon Mac and Cheese
![A skillet filled with smoked mac and cheese and bacon on a stove top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Skillet-Bacon-Mac-And-Cheese.jpg)
Jump into this skillet bacon mac and cheese for a simple, cheesy delight. Packed with crispy bacon, it’s a robust dish that could make grandma wish she’d thought of it.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Bacon Mac and Cheese
Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
![A picture of baked cauliflower mac and cheese in cast iron skillet on wooden table.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/baked-Mac-and-cheese-1600x900-1.jpg)
This cauliflower mac and cheese is baked to perfection. It’s a healthier take on the beloved dish, making it a great choice for anyone looking to impress with a familiar yet improved recipe.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MSN-Pumpkin-Mac-and-Cheese.jpg)
This pumpkin mac and cheese is dairy-free but still creamy and rich. It’s perfect for impressing friends and family, including grandma, with how great vegan food can be.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Mac and Cheese