Get ready to indulge in a comforting culinary delight – creamy elbow macaroni! This classic pasta dish has been a staple in many households for generations, and with good reason. When done right, it’s a match made in heaven: al dente noodles smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 creamy elbow macaroni recipes that take this beloved dish to new heights. From classic comfort foods like Mac and Cheese to more adventurous options like Spicy Buffalo Macaroni and Lobster Mac and Cheese, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Mac and Cheese
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, as preferred)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
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 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 mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Macaroni
A creamy and spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the flavors of buffalo wings with al dente pasta and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
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 saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and melted butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Macaroni
A classic comfort food recipe with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk together to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and garlic parmesan sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Macaroni Salad
Add a twist to classic pasta salad with the smoky flavor of bacon and the tanginess of ranch dressing. This creamy, savory side dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon 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 cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including refrigeration time)
Tomato Basil Macaroni Bake
This hearty macaroni bake combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with a creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, tomato-basil mixture, and grated cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three Cheese Macaroni Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect combination of al dente pasta, rich cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup breadcrumb mixture (3:1 ratio of breadcrumbs to grated cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture and melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni with Creamy Pesto Sauce
This classic pasta dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of creamy pesto sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pesto and stir to combine.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the saucepan with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe takes classic macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top. The perfect comfort food for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 large onion, caramelized
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, and caramelized onions to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Macaroni with Smoked Gouda and Ham
A comforting twist on a classic pasta dish, this recipe combines the richness of smoked Gouda cheese with the savory flavor of ham.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add diced ham to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese and ham mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated smoked Gouda cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lobster, macaroni, and cheese for a dish that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a luxurious meal fit for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over the butter mixture and whisk together. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Macaroni with Spinach and Artichokes
This comforting pasta dish is a delicious twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. The addition of wilted spinach and artichoke hearts adds depth and flavor to this creamy, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Add thawed spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, artichoke-spinach mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir until creamy sauce forms.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the comfort of macaroni for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The roasted pepper sauce adds a pop of color and a depth of flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, puree roasted red peppers with garlic until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and roasted red pepper sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Macaroni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish is a flavorful and colorful twist on traditional macaroni. With the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the creaminess of garlic butter, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in feta cheese until melted and well combined with tomato mixture.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-feta mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni with Cajun Shrimp
This recipe combines the classic comfort of macaroni with the bold flavors of Cajun shrimp. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and fully cooked.
3. Sprinkle flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper over the shrimp. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the shrimp mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This classic pasta dish combines al dente macaroni with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. With its earthy flavors and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni with Broccoli and Cheddar
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the simplicity of macaroni, the nutritional benefits of broccoli, and the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz macaroni
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
- In a separate saucepan, combine milk and cheddar cheese. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked macaroni, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni with Sausage and Peppers
This classic comfort food recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavorful sausage, crunchy peppers, and creamy macaroni.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 ounces macaroni
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the macaroni, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni with BBQ Pulled Pork
Elevate your macaroni game with a sweet and tangy twist – slow-cooked BBQ pulled pork adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. Stir in BBQ sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add pulled pork to the skillet and stir to coat with the BBQ mixture.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with the BBQ pork mixture; toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni with Truffle Oil and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet decadent recipe that combines the earthy flavor of truffle oil with the nutty taste of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid and then drain the macaroni.
3. In a large skillet, combine the truffle oil and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat with the truffle sauce.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
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, cook onions over medium-low heat in olive oil, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 30-40 minutes).
4. Add butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Combine cooked macaroni with onion mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with thyme leaves (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in 20 scrumptious and creamy elbow macaroni recipes that will satisfy your cravings! From classic comfort food like Mac and Cheese, to bold flavors like Spicy Buffalo Macaroni and Lobster Mac and Cheese, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, meaty, or packed with veggies, this list has got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up some creamy elbow macaroni goodness!
