Try These Caprese Tortellini Skewers for Your Summer Bash

Basil Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese

Have a significant other, friend, or child who refuses to eat Brussels sprouts? This is an easy way to sneak it into a meal. (via Brit + Co)

Mac and Cheese Muffins

This is the all-time best way to serve mac and cheese to a crowd. No messy baking dish, just individual portions that guests can serve themselves. (via Brit + Co)

Microwave Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Short on time? Whip up this easy, delicious mac and cheese recipe in your microwave. We’d even serve it for a dinner party. Your guests will have no idea the oven stayed off. (via Brit + Co)

Big-Hearted Mac and Cheese with Artichokes

Artichoke hearts give the perfect salty, briny tang to a mac and cheese recipe. What can we say? We heart it. (via The Kitchn)

Easiest Baked Macaroni and Cheese

We love recipes with surprising ingredients, and this mac and cheese does not disappoint. The key to its creamy goodness? Cottage cheese! Who knew? (via Smitten Kitchen)

Baked Macaroni

We’d make this mac and cheese solely on the basis that it’s baked in a cast iron skillet. Comfort food to the max! (via A Beautiful Mess)

Sweet Peas and Shells Alfredo

Let’s be honest, Alfredo is just another name for mac and cheese. It might be a bit classier, but it’s basically the same thing. (via Shutterbean)

Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you’re sensitive to dairy, but can’t give up on this dish, try this version. We promise you won’t miss the milk! (via Love & Lemons)

Layered Italian Baked Mac and Cheese

Say "ciao" to ordinary mac and cheese! These Italian-inspired layers bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table, making it a cheesy masterpiece worth savoring. (via Vikalinka)

Vegetarian Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Brie Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Easy Beer Mac and Cheese

Yes, you read that right — beer in mac and cheese. We're guessing this is going to be a game day favorite all through football season. (via How Sweet Eats)

Roasted Summer Vegetable Mac and Cheese

Channel summer with this deliciously crispy mac and cheese recipe. All those veggies make it health food in our book. (via How Sweet Eats)

Lightly Cheddared Spinach Ricotta Mac and Cheese

If you don’t like heavy mac and cheeses, try this version made mostly with ricotta, and just a sprinkling of cheddar on top. (via Food52)

Lobster & Shrimp Mac and Cheese

The buttery lobster and shrimp make this version of mac and cheese incredibly decadent. (via Table for Two)

Truffled Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

Something about adding truffle oil makes a basic mac and cheese recipe seem more grown-up. Making it with whole wheat pasta doesn’t hurt either. (via Turntable Kitchen)

Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Because sometimes, you just can't beat a classic. This baked mac and cheese recipe brings you the timeless flavors you know and love, baked to perfection. (via Completely Delicious)

Roasted Red Pepper Harissa Mac and Cheese

Spice up your mac game with the bold flavors of roasted red pepper and harissa. It's a fiery twist that'll have your taste buds dancing in delight. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Creamiest Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Set it, forget it, and come home to a pot full of pure comfort. This slow-cooked sensation is the epitome of creamy dreams, making it the perfect fix for your laziest (and cheesiest) days. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Cheddar And Gruyere Mac and Cheese with Polish Kielbasa

Add a kick to your mac with this savory twist. The combo of cheddar, gruyere, and Polish kielbasa creates a total flavor explosion. (via Vikalinka)

Bacon & Pea Mac and Cheese

Adding bacon and peas to your favorite mac and cheese recipe makes it a full meal instantly. Well, maybe you need a side salad, too. (via The Kitchy Kitchen)

Easy 30-Minute Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Short on time, but craving a bowl of cheesy goodness? Look no further! This lightning-fast stovetop version guarantees a speedy fix without sacrificing flavor. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Southwest-Inspired Mac and Cheese

Even the most cheese-loving person will be reaching for seconds with this Southwest-inspired vegan masterpiece. It's so good, you won't believe it's dairy-free! (via The Edgy Veg)

Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese

Clearly we can’t get enough bacon. Can you blame us? (via Food52)

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

If you want a fall flavor, but pumpkin isn’t your thing, try this butternut squash version. It’s just as tasty! (via Always Order Dessert)

Bacon Macaroni and Cheese Balls

A bit more labor intensive than the macaroni muffins, these mac and cheese balls are worth it for the crispy fried exterior. Oh, right, and they have bacon. (via Kirbie’s Cravings)

Blue Cheese Mac and Cheese

This recipe has that distinct funky tang that could only come from blue cheese. It might not be for everyone, but we love it.(via How Sweet Eats)

One-Bowl Microwave Macaroni and Cheese

If you still believe the boxed mac is best, but want to give up all the processed ingredients, make this microwave recipe. It’s healthier, so you don’t have to feel bad eating it. (via The Kitchn)

White Cheddar Truffle Mac and Cheese

Elevate your mac game with the decadent duo of white cheddar and truffles. This dish is so posh, it might just outshine your favorite little black dress at the next dinner party. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Creamy Vermont Mac and Cheese

Take your taste buds on a journey to Vermont with this creamy concoction. Loaded with the finest cheeses, it's a trip to dairy heaven without ever leaving your kitchen. (via Averie Cooks)

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping

Crunchy, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying. This baked mac and cheese takes the classic to new heights with a golden breadcrumb topping that'll have your guests fighting for the last spoonful. (via Vikalinka)

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Sometimes simple is best. This classic homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, bringing you back to the basics with every creamy bite. (via Clean Cuisine)

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash takes center stage in this vegan twist on the classic mac. Creamy, dreamy, and entirely plant-based, it's comfort food without the guilt! (via The Edgy Veg)

Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Up your veggie intake with this cauliflower-packed mac and cheese recipe. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Spicy Macaroni and Cheese

Along with a host of veggies, chili powder gives this cheesy recipe an extra kick. (via Kurry Leaves)

Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese

For our lactose-intolerant friends, fear not! This dairy-free delight proves that you don't need milk to create a bowl of cheesy perfection. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower

Another veggie that’s easy to disguise in mac and cheese? Cauliflower! When it’s baked, it has almost the same consistency as the noodles. (via Shutterbean)

Mediterranean Mac and Cheese

Adding in chickpeas and onions gives this recipe some Mediterranean flair. You could also use couscous instead of elbow macaroni. (via Food52)

Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon

It wouldn’t be fall without the addition of pumpkin to every single recipe, ever! Luckily, this pumpkin mac and cheese is good enough to enjoy year-round. (via Lauren’s Latest)

Chicken Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Get your protein fix with this hearty variation. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy goodness make for a mac and cheese meal that's both comforting and substantial. (via Completely Delicious)

20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Roasted Garlic Lasagna Boats

This great make-ahead meal looks pretty darn cute when it’s finished. You’re guests will leave satisfied and impressed that you were able to whip up such a fancy meal. Don’t worry, your secret is safe with us. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pad Thai

Now you can eat as much pad thai as you want and not feel bad about it. You won’t even notice the difference. Go on, try it and see for yourself. (via Lexi’s Clean Kitchen)

“Pasta” and Sauce

Pick a sauce and dig in. Heck, you can even eat all three and no one would blame you. (via Brit + Co)

Quinoa and Parmesan Fritters

Fry up full-sized fritters and serve alongside a garden salad for a full meal, or make smaller patties for totally poppable bite-sized appetizers. (via Julia’s Album)

Skinny Baked Shrimp Scampi

Made with only two tablespoons of butter, this dish is both healthy and delish. It’s also easy to throw together during the week, but still decadent enough for a weekend dinner party served alongside a good bottle of white wine. (via Pineapple and Coconut)

Gremolata

This bright and beautiful gremolata is chocked full of lemon zest, garlic and chopped herbs. Toss it with a few fresh tomatoes and you’re good to go. (via A Family Feast)

Spinach, Tomato and Goat Cheese

When cut in half lengthwise, this squash makes two perfectly cute (and edible) bowls. Use it to your advantage and stuff that baby with spinach, tomatoes and creamy goat cheese. Top it all off with roasted seeds for extra crunch. (via BS’ in the Kitchen)

Roasted With Chickpeas and Kale

Slow-roasted spaghetti squash strands are tossed with olive oil, rosemary, garlic and lemon before colliding with sauteed kale and chickpeas for a meal packed with flavor and protein. (via Love and Lemons)

Asparagus Quiche

Use the squash in a totally unexpected way, like the crust for this asparagus quiche. It might just be better than the real thing. (via Tasty Kitchen)

Avocado and Egg Boats

Baked egg and avocado take this already delicious squash to a whole other level. It might look fancy, but if you can crack an egg you can definitely handle this one. (via iFoodreal)

Garlic and Herbs

Take a step back and go with simply classic flavors like toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley. The point isn’t to cover up the taste of the squash, but to make it shine. (via Pinch of Yum)

Burrito Bowls

Okay, so it might not be Chipotle, but if you’re going to eat squash you might as well stuff it with beans and smother it in melty Mexican cheeses. (via Making Thyme for Health)

Spinach and Artichoke Alfredo

In the mood for something warm and comforting but still want to fit into your skinny jeans tomorrow? You’ll be able to have seconds with this easy-peasy recipe. (via Taste and Tell)

Curried and Stuffed

If tofu isn’t your thing, substitute it out for boneless chicken breast. Either way you won’t be disappointed. (via Vegetarian Times)

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is one of my favorite Italian meals ever! Think of the flavor of lasagna in a low-carb, gluten-free, diet-friendly disposable hot bowl of cheesy goodness! There’s not much more to think about. If you haven’t tried spaghetti squash in place of spaghetti yet, this is a great way to start! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Buffalo Chicken

The saying must be true. You can really put Frank’s Red Hot Sauce on everything. (via Sweet Treats and More)

Pasta Primavera

Make this pasta with shrimp, chicken or both if you’re feeling extra crazy. Just make sure there’s more than enough to go around. You’ll thank us later. (via Lexi’s Clean Kitchen)

Maple Syrup and Shallots

If there’s someone we trust when it comes to comfort food, it’s The Pioneer Woman. And if she says it’s good, then that’s the end of it. (via The Pioneer Woman)

Enchilada Stuffed

Guess what? Cutting this squash in half widthwise makes for a deeper bowl with room for MORE filling. This versatile recipe can be made vegan, vegetarian, or with chicken (or ground beef) for all you meat lovers. Be sure to make room in your weekly dinner rotations for this bad boy. (via Feasting at Home)

Twice Baked

This one takes a bit of time… but good things come to those who wait, right? It’s safe to say that this squash is twice as delicious. (via A Sweet Life)

Ingredients for Paleo Christmas Cookies

For the cookies:

• 1/2 cup grass-fed salted butter, softened
• 6 tablespoons raw honey
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the frosting:

• 6 tablespoons coconut butter or coconut manna
• 1/4 cup cacao butter
• 1-2 tablespoons honey
• Plant-based food coloring
• Vegetable-dyed sprinkles, for topping*

How to Make Paleo Christmas Cookies

1. Add the softened butter and honey to a large mixing bowl. Cream the mixture together using a handheld mixer until it is smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract and whisk until they are well combined. Pour in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, and continue mixing until the batter has come together smoothly.
2. Separate the dough into two, and place each one on top of a piece of plastic wrap. Roll each dough into a ball, then flatten to a thick disk, cover completely with the plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one of the dough discs from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic and place the dough on top of a piece of parchment paper, then top it with another piece of parchment paper. Use a roller to flatten out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch thick. Work quickly with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters, and use a thin spatula to lift the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the cookies in the oven for 10 minutes. Let them cool for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack for further cooling. Gather the leftover scraps back into a ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it back in the refrigerator, while working with the other piece of dough. Do this in batches to keep the dough from getting too warm and so you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
5. While the batches of cookies are baking, use a small saucepan to lightly melt the coconut butter and cacao butter together over low heat on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat when the ingredients have just melted together. Stir in the desired amount of honey, then set aside to cool and thicken up slightly. If you are using food coloring, add in the desired amount into the frosting mixture (1-2 teaspoons of green or red should do the trick). If you plan on only using white frosting, only use a small amount of honey, as it can make the frosting an off-white or light brown color.
6. After the cookies have completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting and sprinkles as desired. If you don’t have any professional piping tools, an easy fix is to place the frosting in a plastic sandwich bag and remove all the air when sealing the top. Cut a tiny tip off one corner of the plastic bag, then gently squeeze and pipe over the cookies. Use one plastic bag or piping bag for each color of frosting. Top with corresponding sprinkles and enjoy!