Few dishes are as universally loved—and as ripe for reinvention—as mac and cheese. For high-volume menu developers, this comfort food classic offers a golden opportunity: It’s familiar, craveable and endlessly customizable. In a time when diners are hungry for bold flavors, nostalgic twists and plant-forward creativity, mac and cheese offers up the perfect canvas for innovation across menus and dayparts. Whether looking to elevate a side dish, craft a signature entrée or develop an LTO that drives buzz, the potential is piping hot. Click through the slideshow, featuring the quality and consistency of Barilla for Professionals, to explore inspired builds that go beyond the bowl, designed to spark the next big idea.

 
For a quick look at why mac and cheese is always a good idea, check out Barilla’s Mac Facts Infographic Tool.