Are you a comfort food lover looking for new and creative ways to indulge in your favorite dish – elbow macaroni? Look no further! We’ve gathered 18 delicious and creamy elbow macaroni recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. From classic baked mac and cheese to spicy Cajun macaroni with Andouille sausage, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and twists to keep your taste buds excited.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy elbow macaroni and exploring all the different ways you can prepare it. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that never goes out of style, this recipe yields a creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying side dish or main course in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Macaroni
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy macaroni dish. This one-pot wonder combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and a hint of creaminess in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in heavy cream and parsley. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni back into the pot and toss with the creamy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Take your comfort food game to the next level with this creamy Buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe. A perfect combination of spicy and savory, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken (thighs and breasts)
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled blue cheese, diced chicken, and hot sauce. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic with a twist – this recipe lets you leave the cooking to your slow cooker! With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy pasta dish ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
4. Place the mixture in a slow cooker and add the butter on top.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Spicy Cajun Macaroni with Andouille Sausage
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this bold and flavorful dish that combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smoky goodness of Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine.
6. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, cooked macaroni, and sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate a classic comfort food with the rich flavor of truffle oil and crunchy breadcrumbs. This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and truffle oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni salad with the smoky flavor of bacon and the tanginess of ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the bowl and stir until coated with the bacon-ranch mixture.
4. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top of the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes cooking time for macaroni)
Three-Cheese Spinach and Artichoke Macaroni
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of creamy cheeses. Perfect for a comforting meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated cheddar, and crumbled feta cheese until smooth.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and mix well.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loaded BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy macaroni dish loaded with tender pulled pork, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup pulled pork (BBQ-style)
– 6 slices of bacon, crispy cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked macaroni, pulled pork, bacon, and parsley to the cheese sauce; mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Macaroni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This classic pasta dish gets a flavor boost from the combination of creamy pesto, al dente macaroni, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss with the pesto mixture until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Gruyère
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of lobster meat with the nutty, buttery flavor of Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese until melted. Add lobster meat and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Macaroni Salad
Get ready to fiesta with this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful macaroni salad! Inspired by the classic Mexican street corn, this dish combines cooked pasta, roasted corn, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing for a delicious twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. macaroni
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. lime juice
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss corn kernels with a pinch of salt, spread on a baking sheet, and roast for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, roasted corn, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform classic macaroni and cheese into a flavorful and colorful stuffed pepper dish, perfect for a comforting meal or potluck. This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the macaroni mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni Bake
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold boost from the addition of crispy jalapeño poppers. The perfect comfort food with a spicy kick!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced into rings
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated.
6. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Top with sliced jalapeño peppers and panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Macaroni with Mozzarella
Tomato Basil Macaroni with Mozzarella is a classic Italian-inspired recipe that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cooked macaroni. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni Tuna Casserole with Peas
This classic casserole combines the comfort of macaroni, tuna, and peas in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
3. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, peas, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and butter. Mix well.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Cashew Cheese Elbow Macaroni
This comforting vegan macaroni dish is a game-changer for those who thought they had to give up creamy pasta. Made with cashews, nutritional yeast, and a hint of garlic, this recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse with fresh water.
3. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked macaroni and cashew cheese sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes soaking time for cashews)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy comfort food! This collection of 18 elbow macaroni recipes offers a wide range of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From classic baked mac and cheese to spicy Cajun macaroni with Andouille sausage, and from buffalo chicken mac and cheese to vegan cashew cheese, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are perfect for cozy nights in, potlucks, or just a quick and easy meal. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the comfort of a warm, creamy bowl!
