Our Best Baked Macs to Try Next Weekend

Staying in next weekend? There’s no better way to pass the time than dipping your fork into a bubbling scoop of baked mac and cheese. We’ve got just the recipes to keep your oven occupied, from ham and Fontina-laced mac to a smoky bacon rendition loaded with pepper Jack. With 5 stars and over 100 reviews, these six takes on the classic comfort dish will surely hit the spot.

Ina’s Mac and Cheese (pictured at top)
Ina Garten enhances mac and cheese by using Gruyère in addition to cheddar, the classic star. When selecting a cheddar, go for the extra-sharp variety — Gruyère’s bold, earthy flavor complements the creamy bite.

Giada’s Macaroni and Cheese
Loaded with sweet diced ham, Giada De Laurentiis’ Venetian-style mac and cheese is a fan favorite with 5 stars and over 700 reviews. It’s no surprise, when you consider that the recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare — and it doesn’t skimp on cheese, either. Fontina and mozzarella cheeses add creaminess, while Parmesan adds a salty bite.

Spicy Macaroni and Cheese
Feeling nostalgic for her mom’s mac and cheese, Sunny Anderson came up with this smooth, spicy version to hold her over between visits home. Buttery croutons top it off for a comforting crunch.

Mac Daddy Mac ‘n’ Cheese
This grown-up version of macaroni and cheese mixes in smoky bacon, spicy pepper Jack cheese, roasted shallots and garlic. Don’t forget to sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs! They make an irresistible crunchy topping.

Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
The Neelys use tomato paste, heavy cream and sweet chunks of lobster tail for an extra-thick, extra-decadent macaroni and cheese that’s worthy of a special occasion.

Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe from Food Network Magazine aims to please any and all palates. The key to getting a perfectly balanced bite in every forkful is the layering: macaroni, chicken, macaroni, cheese sauce. Top with the panko-blue cheese-parsley mixture and bake until bubbly.

Ready for a second helping? Check out more of our most-comforting mac and cheese recipes here.

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