ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Macaroni and cheese remains a beloved comfort food, and the Rockford area is brimming with spots to savor this creamy delight.

From cozy diners to innovative eateries, here’s a list of the Top 10 places to indulge in mac and cheese in the stateline, according to Eyewitness News social media followers and viewer feedback.

10. Wammy’s Kitchen: A local gem with a personal touch, Wammy’s Kitchen offers a hearty mac and cheese.

9. Panera: This chain brings consistency to the table with its creamy mac and cheese, featuring a blend of aged cheddar and a hint of tanginess. It’s a reliable pick for a quick, comforting bite.

8. Mission BBQ: Specializing in smoky flavors, Mission BBQ serves a mac and cheese that pairs beautifully with its hickory-grilled meats. The dish stands out with its robust cheese sauce, appealing to barbecue lovers.

7. Screw City Tavern: This lively spot adds a local twist to mac and cheese, often incorporating unique ingredients. The creamy texture and bold flavors make it a favorite among patrons looking for a bar-food upgrade.

6. The Olympic Tavern: A Rockford institution since 1945, The Olympic Tavern offers a classic mac and cheese that complements its eclectic menu. The dish is well-executed, with a nostalgic feel and a solid cheese pull.

5. Coach’s Corner: In Belvidere, this sports bar serves a hearty mac and cheese that’s a hit with families and game-day crowds. Its cheesy, satisfying nature makes it a local standout.

4. Baker Street Burgers: Known for its burgers, this spot also delivers a delicious mac and cheese side or standalone dish. The creamy blend of cheeses adds a perfect complement to their hearty menu.

3. Aero Ale House: A craft beer pub Loves Park, Aero Ale House offers a mac and cheese that’s both creamy and inventive, often enhanced with local beer influences. It’s a must-try for foodies.

2. Cheezy’s Grilled Cheeses: This food truck-turned-winter-residence at Bj’s Place brings epic cheese pulls to its mac and cheese. The creative twists and extra-gooey texture make it a standout for cheese enthusiasts.

1. Ambiance Cuisine Catering & Cocktails: Topping the list, this soul food haven at 307 S. Main St. serves a luxurious mac and cheese, often paired with dishes like lobster tails or blackened catfish. The creamy, flavorful execution and warm hospitality seal its reputation.

Baked mac and cheese recipe (feeds 4)

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup shredded fontina cheese
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, fontina, and half of the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
6. Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture over the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.