When it comes to special occasions, you want a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressive. One way to achieve this is by making a creamy macaroni grill recipe. These pasta dishes are rich, flavorful, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort food to more adventurous twists, we’ve got 18 creamy macaroni grill recipes for you to try on your next special occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a wedding shower, birthday party, or holiday gathering, these recipes are sure to be a hit. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and impress your guests with one of our 18 creamy macaroni grill recipes below.
Four Cheese Macaroni Grill Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add grated cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture, stirring until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Macaroni Grill
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, garlicky, and indulgent shrimp macaroni dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the shrimp mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Macaroni Grill with Pancetta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory dish, where the earthy flavors of truffle oil and crispy pancetta come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add truffle oil and stir to combine with any remaining pancetta drippings.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss to coat with the truffle oil mixture.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of crispy pancetta.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Macaroni Grill
Add a kick of spice to your pasta with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of mac and cheese. This spicy twist on classic macaroni grill is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through.
4. Add Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken and stir to combine.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce in a large baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Macaroni Grill
A flavorful twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil into the skillet. Toss until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Macaroni Grill with Herbed Breadcrumbs
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent lobster macaroni dish, topped with crispy herbed breadcrumbs. Perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat (about 2 cups)
– Herbed breadcrumbs (see below)
Herbed Breadcrumbs:
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, and paprika. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add cooked lobster meat to the skillet; toss to combine.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with lobster mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Top with herbed breadcrumbs (see below).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Herbed Breadcrumbs:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, parsley, and paprika in a bowl.
3. Spread breadcrumb mixture on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
Bacon and Gouda Macaroni Grill Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and smoky twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the comfort of a baked pasta dish with the added depth of crispy bacon and melted Gouda.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups grated Gouda cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, Gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, and heavy cream. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Macaroni Grill with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, combine cooked macaroni, pesto sauce, and roasted vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Macaroni Grill
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of mushrooms and cream with the nutrients of spinach, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked macaroni, mushroom-spinach mixture, and cheddar cheese.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the macaroni mixture in an even layer.
6. Pour heavy cream over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Grill
A creamy, spicy twist on classic mac and cheese, this Buffalo chicken pasta dish is a game-changer for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until heated through.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss until coated with the buffalo chicken mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar Macaroni Grill
Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar Macaroni Gratin
Transform plain macaroni into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece by infusing it with the deep flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted garlic, grated cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the garlic-cheese mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish with parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Smoked Salmon Macaroni Grill with Dill
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the brightness of fresh dill, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flaked smoked salmon and cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the smoked salmon sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Grill
Get ready for a spicy twist on classic mac and cheese! This Jalapeño Popper Macaroni Grill recipe combines the creaminess of macaroni with the bold flavors of jalapeños, creating a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated jalapeño peppers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add jalapeño peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Macaroni Grill
Transform a classic macaroni dish with the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and shredded Gruyère cheese. Season with salt to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni Grill
Get ready for a comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese with the addition of tender BBQ pulled pork!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup BBQ pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in BBQ pulled pork, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and BBQ mixture in a large bowl. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Macaroni Grill with Feta and Olives
A flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the tanginess of feta cheese and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, feta cheese, sliced olives, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Macaroni Grill
Warm up with a cozy fall twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring the sweetness of pumpkin and the earthiness of sage. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp dried sage
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add dried sage and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and pumpkin sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Black Truffle Macaroni Grill with Wild Mushrooms
This rich and earthy pasta dish combines the luxurious flavors of black truffles, wild mushrooms, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup black truffle butter or shaved fresh black truffles
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni al dente according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add white wine and heavy cream; stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in black truffle butter or shaved fresh black truffles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and mushroom sauce; toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 creamy macaroni grill recipes perfect for special occasions. From decadent four-cheese pasta to spicy Cajun chicken, and even lobster macaroni grill with herbed breadcrumbs, there’s something for everyone. Other standout dishes include truffle oil macaroni grill with pancetta, caramelized onion and gruyère, and Mediterranean macaroni grill with feta and olives. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.