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National Mac and Cheese Day

Indulge your cheesy cravings this National Mac and Cheese Day! Enjoy delicious recipes, pairings, and discounts that will make your day extra tasty!

Tuesday

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJuly 14

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYPasta

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Mac and Cheese Day on July 14! This creamy, cheesy dish has been around since the 1300s, when cheese was first used as an ingredient in pasta dishes. Ever since then it's become a beloved comfort food for people of all ages. It's also one of the most popular dishes served at barbecues and potlucks throughout summertime. So gather your friends, family and macaroni noodles because it’s time to indulge in this delicious treat!

DEALS & OFFERS

Past offers

No active deals yet — here’s who’s celebrated before.

Nothing yet for 2026

Brands typically announce offers a week before the date. Check back closer to the day.

8 brands have run a deal

Bob Evans Farms, Inc.

TIMELINE

National Mac and Cheese Day Timeline

Origin of Cheese Pasta

First known recipe of pasta with cheese can be traced back to medieval times. It was a simple dish composed of hand-cut pasta sandwiched between layers of melted cheese.

Thomas Jefferson's Influence

Thomas Jefferson encountered macaroni during his travels in France and Italy and introduced it to the United States, adding a new, elegant twist to the humble dish.

Launch of Kraft Mac and Cheese

Kraft Foods launched its boxed macaroni and cheese, making the dish more accessible to families across America, especially during the Great Depression.

TV Dinners Craze

The frozen food revolution included mac and cheese as a popular item in TV dinners, reflecting changes in eating habits in post-war American society.

Mac and Cheese Goes Gourmet

High-end restaurants began serving gourmet versions of mac and cheese, incorporating ingredients like truffles, lobster, and artisanal cheeses.

First National Mac and Cheese Day

The first National Mac and Cheese Day was celebrated, giving recognition to one of America's favorite comfort foods.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Mac and Cheese Day

Try a new mac and cheese recipe

Search for recipes on Pinterest or Google, and get creative! Try a new twist on the classic dish, such as adding bacon and jalapenos, or try an entirely new version with vegan cheese. The possibilities are endless.

VISIT

Visit a mac and cheese restaurant

Check out the local restaurants in your area that specialize in mac and cheese. You can find some really great takes on this classic dish, such as lobster mac and cheese, truffle mac and cheese, or even deep fried mac and cheese balls.

HOST

Host a mac and cheese party

Invite your friends over for a potluck style mac and cheese party. Have everyone bring their favorite recipe or a new one they want to try out. Don't forget to have plenty of sides to go with all of the cheesy goodness.

COMPETE

Compete in a mac and cheese eating contest

Test your stomach's limits by competing in an eating contest! See who can eat the most mac and cheese in the shortest amount of time - just don't forget to drink plenty of water afterwards.

MAKE

Make mac and cheese themed crafts

Get crafty with it! Make decorations like banners, centerpieces, or party favors out of macaroni noodles or even make jewelry out of macaroni noodles. Have fun with it and show off your creative side.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Mac and Cheese Day

Mac and cheese is comforting

Whether it's a hectic day at work or you're feeling homesick, nothing beats a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese. No matter how bad the day might be going, this familiar dish will bring you right back to your childhood in no time!

Mac and cheese is delicious

Mac and Cheese is one of the most beloved comfort foods out there. Creamy and cheesy, it always fills you up in the best way possible. Whether it's a classic stovetop recipe or a homemade version baked with crunchy cheese breadcrumbs, mac and cheese never fails to satisfy!

Mac and cheese is easy to make

Making your own mac and cheese means you don't have to rely on pre-made boxes or frozen dinners - all you need is some pasta, cheese, and a few basic ingredients. Plus, if you feel like getting creative you can customize it however you like with things like bacon, chilies, hot sauce or sun dried tomatoes for an added flavor kick!

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