Name: Kimchi Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; ½ cup chopped kimchi; 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon kimchi juice; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Green onions, for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Kimchi Mac and Cheese Recipe

This recipe takes traditional mac and cheese to the next level by adding kimchi and gochujang, which introduce vibrant sour, spicy, and savory notes that balance the rich cheese sauce perfectly. It’s comforting and familiar yet exciting and full of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow pasta
unsalted butter
kimchi and kimchi juice
gochujang (Korean chili paste)
gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
salt
white pepper
all-purpose flour
milk
sharp cheddar cheese
mozzarella cheese

Directions

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve some pasta water, then drain.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, gochujang, gochugaru, salt, and white pepper. Sauté briefly to soften and release flavors.
Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook until slightly thickened.
Gradually add the milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce.
Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake for about 25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil for an extra minute or two if desired.
Let rest briefly, garnish with green onion, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for more heat.
Different Cheeses: Swap in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon, bulgogi beef, tofu, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Crunchy Topping: Add a layer of buttered breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy topping.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese, non-dairy milk, and vegan kimchi to suit plant-based diets.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and flour to accommodate dietary needs.
Kimchi Fried Rice Fusion: Stir in a spoonful of leftover kimchi fried rice for extra flavor.
Seafood Twist: Add chopped cooked shrimp or crab meat for a Korean-American seafood bake.
One-Pot Style: Make everything in a large, oven-safe skillet to simplify cleanup.
No-Bake Option: Skip the oven and enjoy it straight from the stovetop for a creamy, quick version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave covered in short intervals. For longer storage, freeze the kimchi cheese sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

FAQs

What does kimchi mac and cheese taste like?

It’s creamy and cheesy with a tangy, savory kick from the kimchi and a subtle spicy depth from gochujang and chili flakes.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes — simply reduce the amount of gochujang and gochugaru or use a milder kimchi.

What kind of kimchi should I use?

Napa cabbage kimchi works best, especially with plenty of kimchi juice for added flavor and acidity.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes — shells, rotini, cavatappi, or penne all work well in place of elbow pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily substitute with gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes — use vegan kimchi (check for fish sauce), plant-based milk, and dairy-free cheeses.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Melt the cheese slowly over low heat and stir gently to avoid overheating the sauce.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely — try bacon, pancetta, tofu, or thin-sliced bulgogi for added richness.

What should I serve with kimchi mac and cheese?

It pairs well with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or Korean BBQ meats.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes — prepare the pasta and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Kimchi Mac and Cheese brings together the best of creamy comfort and bold Korean flavors in one satisfying dish. With its tangy, spicy kick and rich cheese sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re a kimchi lover or just looking to spice up your mac and cheese routine, this fusion recipe delivers flavor in every bite.