Though many think of macaroni and cheese as an item on the kid's menu, that is certainly not always the case! There are plenty of mac and cheese dishes that have been made into full-blown entrees. They're full of al dente noodles and cheesy sauces, yes, but they are also covered in toppings - or completely reinvented - at these Illinois restaurants.

1. Fire and Ale (Sherman)

This restaurant serves up buffalo chicken macaroni and cheese that you have to try. They have an amazing patio complete with outdoor fireplaces, too, so there's plenty of reasons to stop in.

135 Illini Boulevard, Sherman

https://fireandale.net/" target="_blank">More information here

2. D.C. Cobbs (Woodstock)

This place takes it up a notch with mac and cheese, chicken, bacon, and buffalo sauce - all on top of a big pile of fries. It's one of those once-in-a-lifetime dishes that you can't miss.

226 Main Street, Woodstock

https://dccobbs.net/" target="_blank">More information here

3. Hoppy Pig (Bradley)

It might be easier to list what isn't on this amazing dish! Peppers, meat, onions, and more lie on top of a bed of noodles and cheese.

135 N. Kinzie Avenue, Bradley

https://www.hoppypig.com/" target="_blank">More information here

4. Duke's Alehouse & Kitchen (Crystal Lake)

Ham and peas are two classic macaroni and cheese toppings that adorn this dish. The restaurant has an extensive beer list, too, so you can find just right drink to go with your meal.

110 N. Main Street, Crystal Lake

https://thedukeabides.com/" target="_blank">More information here

5. Gabby Goat (Effingham)

Those with an affinity for fried things will love these mac and cheese bites! They're crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and all-around delicious.

303 E. Fayette Avenue, Effingham

https://www.gabbygoat.com/" target="_blank">More information here

6. Scratch Kitchen & Lounge (Forest Park)

Fontina cream sauce serves as the "cheese" in this macaroni and cheese dish, and it's amazing! Did I mention it's topped with lobster?

7445 Madison Street, Forest Park

https://scratchfp.com/" target="_blank">More information here

7. Beach House (Decatur)

Seafood lovers will appreciate this culinary creation! The mac and cheese at Beach House is stuffed with sea bass and shrimp.

2301 E. Lake Shore Drive, Decatur

https://www.decaturbeachhouse.com/" target="_blank">More information here

8. Dimo's Pizza (Chicago)

Dimo's is known for inventive pizzas, and their mac and cheese pizza is no exception. If you're looking to enjoy your favorite dish in a brand new way, this is it!

3463 N. Clark Street, Chicago

https://dimospizza.com/" target="_blank">More information here

9. Cleveland-Heath (Edwardsville)

For the mac and cheese purists of Illinois, this is the perfect dish. Topped off with bread crumbs, this classic version hits the spot.

106 N. Main Street, Edwardsville

https://www.clevelandheath.com/" target="_blank">More information here

What's your favorite spot in Illinois to get macaroni and cheese? Let us know in the comments.

For even more cheesy goodness, check out The Restaurant in Illinois That Serves Grilled Cheese to Die For.