Got leftover mac and cheese? Want mac and cheese but don’t just want “mac and cheese”? Don’t fret because this collection of 10 recipes made with mac and cheese that aren’t mac and cheese has got you covered!
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that can double as a main course or a side dish.
It’s commonly made using elbow macaroni, whole milk, all purpose flour, butter, cheddar cheese, and seasonings such as black pepper and mustard powder.
However, there are so many varieties using different types of cheese that the options are endless!
In fact, there are also lots of options for enjoying leftover macaroni and cheese in different ways.
For example, you can turn your leftover mac n cheese into a chili mac using lean ground beef or turkey meat, taco seasoning, canned tomatoes, and some chopped bell peppers and onions.
There are so many creative ways you can reinvent your leftover cheesy mac, but you can also create a new dish around your favorite mac and cheese recipe.
Recipes for Leftover Mac & Cheese (and Fresh Too)
Mac and Cheese Cups
These muffin cups start with a homemade mac and cheese cooked on the stovetop that's then baked in a muffin tin with bread crumbs, melted butter and Parmesan cheese on top of each individual cup. They're perfect for serving as a side dish, but also make a great party appetizer.
Fried Mac n Cheese Balls
If you've ever ordered mac n cheese bites at a restaurant, you'll be happy to know these fan favorites can be made at home too! And you can either use leftover mac and cheese or make a quick stovetop version for these mac n cheese balls which are coated in panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese and seasonings and fried to perfection in hot oil.
Deep Fried Mac and Cheese
Because we can't get enough deep fried mac and cheese, here is another version that starts with a homemade baked mac and cheese casserole before frying. It's the perfect finger food paired with a side of your favorite marinara sauce for dipping!
Mac and Cheese Bites in the Air Fryer
If you prefer not to deep fry, but are craving golden brown mac and cheese bites, you'll love this air fryer version. It's so easy to make using leftover cold mac and cheese and uses much less oil when cooked in the air fryer basket rather than the deep fryer.
Air Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
You only need three ingredients to make these mac and cheese balls which will take your leftovers to the next level. The great thing about this recipe is that there are instructions for both the air fryer and the instant pot!
Mac and Cheese Burger
In the mood for cheeseburgers and mac and cheese, but just can't decide on one? With this mac and cheese burger, you don't have to! Easy to make with leftover mac and cheese and either a homemade or frozen beef patty. It's a great way to use up that leftover pasta!
Bacon Mac & Cheese Eggrolls
Did you know that you could transform your leftover macaroni and cheese into egg rolls? This recipe combines cheesy mac with bacon inside of an egg roll wrapper that is fried until browned. It's perfect served with barbecue sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Mini Macaroni Quiches
I am a huge fan of eating dinner leftovers for breakfast...even pasta! And these mini quiches do just that suing leftover mac and cheese to create a whole new meal for the next day that's easy to make in the air fryer.
Stuffed Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Biscuit Bombs
This easy recipe uses boxed mac and cheese, ground beef, and canned biscuit dough to create a new version of sloppy Joe that's perfect for busy weeknights and will be a hit with kiddos and grownups alike!
Baked Mini Gluten-Free + Vegan Mac & Cheese Bites
If you're in need of an allergy-friendly recipe, this vegan version of mac and cheese bites has got you covered. It also features gluten-free pasta and an egg replacement. The bites are baked in a muffin tin and are perfect as a side or appetizer.
So, the next time you find yourself with some leftover creamy mac and cheese, you can get creative in the kitchen with one of these recipes.