Everyone who has ever attended elementary school will remember the creative macaroni art projects they made. Elbow macaroni is not just a nostalgic reminder of childhood; it’s also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of culinary creations. Of course, one of the most classic pairings for elbow macaroni is a hearty meat sauce. However, this pantry staple is more than just a pairing with a meat-based topping!
It can be incorporated into soups, salads, and casseroles, such as macaroni and cheese, to name just a few examples. Below, you’ll find 30 creative elbow macaroni recipes that are sure to satisfy the whole family and provide plenty of leftovers for the rest of the week. If you’ve stumbled upon a clearance sale and stocked up on boxes (or even dozens) of elbow pasta, we’ve got you covered! You no longer have to worry about a cluttered kitchen or running out of storage space.
Get ready to rummage through your cupboards, put on your chef’s hat, and take note with pen in hand as we guide you through this exhaustive list of mouthwatering recipes to help use up your noodle surplus.
Beef and Macaroni Soup
Leading the list is a soup that will quickly become your go-to comfort food during the colder months. The combination of beef, macaroni pasta, and mixed veggies in a rich tomato broth creates a satisfying and filling meal. The addition of various vegetables actually makes this soup feel lighter on the palate, despite its filling nature. This is due to the balance of flavors achieved by the inclusion of different textures and tastes.
One unexpected ingredient that will add depth to this dish is Worcestershire sauce. Feel free to substitute it with a few dashes of soy sauce if you prefer, or take it up a notch by adding some heat with your favorite hot sauce.
Classic Creamy Potato Salad
While traditional wisdom might dictate that potato salad is only suitable as a summertime or BBQ side dish, this recipe shatters those expectations. Its irresistible flavor will have you craving it on a regular basis – even during the coldest winter months. The surprise ingredient in this particular recipe is chopped dill pickles, which provide both a satisfying crunch and a tangy twist to the classic potato salad flavors.
If you can’t find or prefer not to use pickles, relish is a suitable substitute that will yield remarkably similar results. Worth noting is that adding a few chicken bullion cubes to the water with the boiling potatoes will infuse an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Cheesy Beef Goulash
Everyone who’s ever tried goulash will agree that it’s a hearty, comforting meal. This particular recipe is a perfect blend of meat, vegetables, and seasonings, all simmered together in a rich broth. The addition of elbow macaroni and ground beef makes this dish incredibly satisfying, while the inclusion of cheddar cheese takes it to a whole new level. The cheesy goodness not only adds flavor but also helps to thicken the broth, making it feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to see how they complement the seasonings and add to the overall taste experience. This recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring just under an hour of cooking time, but the best part is that it’s highly versatile – simply portion out leftovers for a week’s worth of meals.
Cheeseburger Macaroni
Most people love cheeseburgers as a main course, and who wouldn’t? They’re always a crowd-pleaser! But what if we told you that you could take this classic dish to the next level by combining it with pasta? That’s right; this recipe is all about merging two favorite foods into one incredibly tasty meal. It’s cheesy, beefy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any day of the week.
Sugar may seem like an unusual ingredient in a savory dish, but trust us when we say that it adds just the right amount of sweetness. If you’re not a fan of sugar, feel free to substitute it with a sweeter vegetable like carrots. The choice is yours! A helpful tip: if your kids are picky eaters and don’t like their veggies, try sneaking them in by mixing some broccoli into the dish. The cheesy sauce will mask any bitterness, making the veggies extra tasty and appealing.
Cheeseburger Casserole
Often when people think of homemade comfort food, they consider recipes that are complicated to prepare. However, making a dish that tastes like Hamburger Helper at home can be surprisingly easy. This cheeseburger casserole is the perfect example, requiring only eight minutes of prep time and cooking quickly afterwards. The key to this recipe’s success lies in the use of room temperature sour cream, which adds a subtle tanginess and richness to the sauce.
Interestingly, substituting sour cream with cream cheese can enhance the dish even further, resulting in an incredibly creamy casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Honestly speaking, there’s little that beats the pleasure of indulging in ooey-gooey mac and cheese that has been perfectly baked in the oven. This recipe masterfully combines the crunch of a well-crafted cheesy topping with the creamy texture of melty cheese at its core, making it the ultimate dinner delight. The key to achieving such an irresistible sauce lies in the clever use of flour to create a roux.
However, for those who want to experiment with alternative options, you can try substituting flour with cornstarch instead. This may require creating a slurry rather than a traditional roux, but it will still allow you to attain that coveted, thick and gooey consistency that mac and cheese enthusiasts adore.
Cheeseburger Macaroni (Instant Pot)
Zest for instant pot recipes is something I’ve developed over time, and it’s not hard to see why – they’re lightning-fast to prepare, requiring minimal cleanup in return. This particular macaroni dish stands out as a great example of the benefits of instant pots, with the added bonus of using an unexpected ingredient: chicken broth. By incorporating this liquid, you’ll not only boost the overall flavor but also prevent the dish from drying out or becoming too dark during cooking.
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, beef broth is a suitable substitute that will add its own rich, savory taste to the mix. A crucial tip to keep in mind when browning meat: always season it first – this simple step can elevate an otherwise mediocre dish into something truly mouthwatering.
Instant Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Craving a piping hot Philly cheesesteak but can’t find your way to a restaurant that serves this mouthwatering sandwich? Consider trying out this recipe as one of the most mouth-watering dinner ideas on our list. While it shares similarities with hamburger pasta, this Italian-inspired dish boasts a distinct seasoning profile that deviates from traditional spaghetti.
The use of Italian seasoning may come as no surprise, but you might be intrigued to learn that garlic powder also plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors. If you’re out of garlic powder or prefer a more robust taste, don’t hesitate to substitute it with fresh garlic instead of relying on minced garlic from a jar – the result will undoubtedly be more intense and satisfying for those who appreciate the bold flavor of garlic.
Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
Often overlooked as an essential component of the ultimate comfort food dish, mac and cheese has a way of elevating itself with the addition of panko crumbs or breadcrumbs to the topping. This simple yet effective twist not only adds crunch but also takes the flavor to a whole new level. The combination of gooey melted cheese beneath and the crispy, golden-brown crust above is a match made in heaven.
It’s worth noting that while bread-based toppings may seem like an obvious choice for mac and cheese, the type of breadcrumb used can make all the difference. Panko crumbs, in particular, provide a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the cheese perfectly. If you’re short on panko or prefer a more traditional topping, regular breadcrumbs will do in a pinch.
One key tip to keep in mind when making this recipe is to pay special attention to the middle cheese layer – it’s a game-changer! The creamy texture and flavor it adds are what truly set this dish apart from other mac and cheese recipes. Don’t skip over this step, as you won’t regret adding an extra layer of cheese to the mix.
One-Pot Chili Mac
Vivid memories of coming home from school on a cold day often evoke images of a warm and inviting meal. The aroma of simmering chili wafted through the air, filling bellies and lifting spirits. Building on this nostalgic foundation, we’ve crafted a recipe that combines one-pot chili with the comforting goodness of mac and cheese for an unbeatable culinary experience.
The choice of protein is where you can get creative – ground beef is our top pick, but swapping it out for ground turkey offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. In fact, the addition of seasonings, cheese, beans, and pasta is so seamless that you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between the two options.
Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese
Gathering inspiration from classic Italian cuisine, this dish brings together perfectly cooked chicken, a rich and creamy sauce infused with three types of cheese, and al dente pasta for a truly satisfying meal. The presence of fresh parsley may come as a surprise, but it adds a delightful peppery flavor to the dish that elevates it to new heights. If you don’t have access to fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute.
A helpful tip is to add the fresh parsley to the dish just before serving, rather than earlier in the cooking process, to avoid it becoming too wilted and losing its flavor.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Gathering around the dinner table with a warm, comforting bowl of mac and cheese is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Instant pot mac and cheese recipes have made it possible to indulge in this classic comfort food without sacrificing time or effort.
Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Zest up your dinner routine with this indulgent cheeseburger casserole recipe, which takes the richness factor to new heights by combining three types of cheese: mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese. The result is a decadent and unique sauce that’s sure to impress. But it’s not just about the cheese – the diced tomatoes play a crucial role in adding flavor and texture. However, for an even more authentic taste experience, consider using roasted canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
This subtle twist will elevate the dish to new heights. And if you’re craving a crispy topping like what’s found on baked mac and cheese, don’t forget to sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking – it’s a game-changer.
Tuna Pasta Salad
Here’s why pasta salad stands out as a refreshing summertime favorite – it’s easily a go-to dish for many people. This particular version takes it to the next level by incorporating tuna, making it a satisfying complete meal that can be prepared in under ten minutes. If you’re not a fan of tuna, don’t worry – you can simply swap it out with canned chicken as an alternative. The texture is comparable, although the flavor will naturally differ.
Ultimately, if you’re undecided about which protein to use, why not make two versions and see which one you prefer?
Skinny Macaroni and Cheese Soup
Understandably, cravings for comforting foods like mac and cheese can be overwhelming, but what if you could satisfy that desire while still opting for a healthier option? To address this challenge, we created a skinny macaroni and cheese soup that not only meets your cheesy expectations but also loads it up with an assortment of nutritious veggies. One of the key ingredients is broccoli, which gives the soup a familiar flavor profile reminiscent of broccoli cheddar soup.
However, we’re aware that not everyone will be on board with this addition. Fortunately, you can easily substitute it with cauliflower or even their favorite vegetable, such as green beans, making it an accessible option for picky eaters.
Instant Pot Hamburger Soup
Highlighting its versatility, this incredible soup recipe combines a vegetable mix, ground beef, tomato sauce, and potatoes. Although the name may suggest it’s a hearty dish, this soup is surprisingly light, making it suitable for any season. Its adaptability also means you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Interestingly, some might assume that sweet potato would be included in the recipe due to its sweetness, but instead, Yukon potatoes provide a perfect balance.
If you’d like an alternative, you can substitute carrots, which offer a similar color and flavor profile.
Instant Pot Hamburger Helper
Understanding what sets Hamburger Helper apart from other comfort foods is key to appreciating its ability to evoke feelings of coziness. This instant pot hamburger helper recipe delivers on that promise, providing a warm, filling, and satisfying meal that’s sure to hit the spot, especially during colder months.
One often-overlooked detail is the need for oil to properly brown the meat before combining it with other ingredients; in this case, vegetable oil is used, although olive oil or similar oils can be substituted on a 1:1 basis if that’s all you have available.
Amish Macaroni Salad
Macaroni Corn Casserole
Highlighting its unique characteristics, this macaroni corn casserole recipe strikes a perfect balance between comforting mac and cheese and sweet, crumbly southern-style cornbread. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, cheesy, and crunchy elements, with tender elbow pasta pieces adding to the overall flavor profile. The Velveeta cheese takes center stage, infusing the dish with its creamy and rich texture.
If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can easily substitute it with shredded cheddar, along with some flour, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper, creating a customizable cheese sauce that suits your taste preferences. A helpful tip to keep in mind is to cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning and ensure an evenly cooked dish.
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese
Taking ranch and cheese enthusiasts on a culinary journey, this chicken ranch macaroni and cheese is a match made in heaven for those who love adding a drizzle of ranch to their pizza. The combination of chicken covered in savory ranch seasoning atop a bed of creamy macaroni with crunchy bacon bits is nothing short of amazing!
A sprinkle of bacon is the magic ingredient that elevates this dish to new heights, and I firmly believe that there’s no meal that can’t benefit from a dash of smoky bacon for added depth. You can also substitute bacon bits if you prefer, but be sure to adjust the salt level accordingly to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty.
Small Macaroni Salad
Delving into the world of pasta salads, one might wonder why this particular recipe is named ‘small macaroni salad.’ The reason lies in its scaled-down version of a classic family favorite, making it an ideal choice for a couple to enjoy over the weekend. Gone are the days of sneaking bites of leftover pasta salad, as this serving size hits the spot perfectly.
What sets this pasta salad apart from others is the addition of green onion, which contributes a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the green onion pairs beautifully with the creaminess found in the dressing, while its subtle spiciness adds depth to the dish. For an extra kick, feel free to substitute sweet yellow onion with red onion for an increased level of heat.
Mom’s Go-To Weeknight Goulash
Keeping in mind that family traditions often come from the best sources – mom’s recipes, moms are capable of whipping up incredible meals, like this scrumptious goulash. What makes it stand out is its simplicity and ease of preparation, making it one of the easiest macaroni recipes you can find online. One aspect that sets this dish apart from other goulash variations is the addition of fresh green bell pepper slices, adding a delightful twist to create a pasta, veggie, and meat combination.
Feel free to experiment by swapping out the green bell pepper for red or orange bell pepper if you prefer recipes with a sweeter flavor profile.
Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe
Certainly, it’s possible to prepare a meal or side dish in just 12 minutes, especially when following a recipe like this macaroni salad. The resulting macaroni salad is not only quick but also sweet, creamy, and subtly spicy. A secret ingredient that elevates the flavor of this macaroni salad is frozen peas. These tiny green gems bring not only a burst of color to each bite but also a touch of natural sweetness.
If you prefer to use canned peas instead, make sure to drain them thoroughly and remove any excess moisture on their surface.
Cheesy Mac Bolognese
Generally speaking, Bolognese is one of those comfort foods that never fails to satisfy. Its rich, meaty flavor profile and saucy texture make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. This casserole-style version takes it up a notch by adding a layer of creamy, melted cheese on top, elevating the dish to new heights.
When it comes to pasta recipes like this one, marinara sauce is often a staple ingredient, but feel free to mix things up and try using a mushroom-infused marinara if you’re a fan of fungi. Either way, the result will be a delicious meal that’s sure to become a regular in your household menu.
Overnight Chicken Tetrazzini
Highlighting the versatility of no-cook recipes, overnight chicken tetrazzini is a surprising yet effective alternative to traditional methods. The noodles in this dish soak up liquid just like oats in overnight oats, achieving softness without the need for boiling. What sets it apart is that instead of using a soaking liquid like water or milk, the noodles are immersed in chicken broth, which allows them to absorb moisture and soften overnight.
For a lighter flavor, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or stock.
Healthy Mac and Cheese
People often underestimate the versatility of certain ingredients in traditional comfort foods. Finding healthy alternatives for comfort foods can be a real struggle, especially with foods that include a good amount of cheese and milk. This is particularly evident when trying to recreate dishes like mac and cheese, which typically rely on rich ingredients to deliver their signature taste.
Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy the best of both worlds – a healthy meal that satisfies your comfort food craving. For instance, mustard is an ingredient found in mac and cheese more often than you would expect, but if you want to add a different twist, you can use a dab of horseradish instead. While it won’t provide the same color as mustard, it will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Sweet Macaroni Salad
Foodies, rejoice! Sweet macaroni salad may seem like an unusual fusion of flavors – sweet and savory – but trust us when we say it’s a game-changer. The combination is surprisingly delightful, making this one of the tastiest elbow noodle recipes out there. Don’t be hesitant to give it a try! One way to add visual appeal to this dish is by incorporating carrots, which lend a vibrant orange hue that instantly brightens up the presentation.
Alternatively, you can use multi-colored bell peppers for an added pop of color and satisfying crunch. For optimal flavor and texture, we recommend serving the macaroni salad chilled. To achieve this, refrigerate it for at least a few hours before serving – ideally overnight to allow all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Elbow Macaroni Salad
Rounding out our collection of 30 creative pasta recipes, we’ve saved one of the best for last – a mouth-watering macaroni salad that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. This versatile dish pairs exquisitely with most meat dishes and boasts a rich, creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of apple cider vinegar lends an unexpected tanginess, but feel free to substitute it with sherry vinegar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Remember, this recipe is just begging for your personal touch – why not add some diced ham or crispy bacon bits for an extra boost of protein? With its simple yet satisfying flavor profile, this macaroni salad is the perfect candidate for experimentation. And speaking of experimenting, with all 30 recipes now at your fingertips (plus that bonus recipe!), you’re well-equipped to tackle even the most ambitious leftover pasta projects.
These delectable dishes are not only a joy to prepare but also an excellent way to hone your culinary skills. So go ahead, get cooking and discover which ones become your new favorites – you’ll be glad you did!
30 Best Elbow Macaroni Recipes
Recognize the versatility of elbow macaroni, often associated with childhood creativity through DIY art projects. Remember creating macaroni plates in elementary school? This beloved pasta type is not only a nostalgic reminder but also a flavorful base for various recipes that can be cooked to perfection in multiple ways.
Instructions
Variations of macaroni and cheese recipes often emphasize the importance of proper cooking techniques for both the noodles and the cheese sauce. Boiling the elbow macaroni noodles for eight minutes in salted water is a good starting point, but it’s crucial to stir throughout to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan. A colander can be used to drain the noodles once they’re done cooking.
The roux that will form the base of the cheese sauce requires heating the ingredients – flour, salt, pepper, and butter – together in a pan until the flour is cooked, which can be confirmed by its color or aroma. Once this step is complete, milk should be added slowly while whisking to achieve a smooth, thick consistency. The final step involves adding your favorite cheese and stirring until you have a melty, thick, cheesy sauce, after which the pasta can be mixed in to coat the noodles evenly.
