15+ Macaroni Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Macaroni is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and joy to mealtimes. Whether you love the classic creamy version or prefer something with a twist, you can find countless macaroni recipes to suit your taste and satisfy your cravings. This versatile dish can be customized with different cheeses, spices, and even proteins to create meals that are both delicious and filling.

In this article, you will discover a variety of macaroni recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive sides for gatherings, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that macaroni can offer!

1) Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Classic baked mac and cheese is a favorite dish for many. It combines creamy cheese sauce with tender macaroni for a comforting meal.

To make this dish, start by cooking elbow macaroni according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, prepare a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and your choice of cheeses.

Once the sauce is ready, mix it with the macaroni. Then, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni
• 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720ml) milk
• 3 cups (about 340g) shredded cheese (cheddar is popular)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened.
6. Add cheese, stirring until melted.
7. Combine the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
8. Pour into a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs if using.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

2) Creamy Stovetop Macaroni

Creamy stovetop macaroni is a comforting dish that’s quick to make. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up after a busy day. In about 30 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy.

To start, cook your pasta until it’s al dente. Keep some pasta water aside for later. This will help make your cheese sauce creamy.

Next, add milk, cheese, and a bit of butter to the pot. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Adjust the thickness with the reserved pasta water if needed.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a pot and cook the macaroni for 8-10 minutes.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
3. Return pasta to the pot and add milk, cheese, and butter.
4. Stir until everything is melted and creamy.
5. Add reserved pasta water for desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

3) Macaroni and Cheese with Panko-Parmesan Topping

Macaroni and cheese is a classic dish that everyone loves. Adding a panko-parmesan topping takes it to the next level. The panko adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese.

To make this dish, start with elbow macaroni. Cook it until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a saucepan, create a cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and a mix of your favorite cheeses.

For the topping, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter. Once your mac and cheese is ready, pour it into a baking dish. Sprinkle the panko mixture evenly on top, then bake until bubbly and golden brown at 350°F (175°C).

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar and Gruyere)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour.
4. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.
5. Stir in cheese until melted, then add salt and pepper.
6. Mix the cheese sauce with the macaroni.
7. In a bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and melted butter.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with panko mixture.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

4) Chili Mac with a Spicy Kick

Chili Mac is a hearty meal that blends spicy chili with cheesy macaroni. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a quick dinner.

To make it extra zesty, you can add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This adds a delightful smoky flavor and a good kick.

The combination of flavors in this dish will surely satisfy your cravings. You can even adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon minced canned chipotle chiles in adobo
• 3 cans (10-oz) Ro-Tel tomatoes (original or mild)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Add chipotle chiles and Ro-Tel tomatoes.
5. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
6. Mix cooked macaroni with the chili mixture.
7. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Enjoy!

5) The Pioneer Woman’s Homemade Mac and Cheese

The Pioneer Woman’s homemade mac and cheese is creamy and comforting. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines a rich cheese sauce with tender pasta for a delightful meal.

You’ll need elbow macaroni, butter, and whole milk to start. Then, add cheese for that extra flavor. You can enjoy it baked or stovetop, depending on your preference.

Ingredients

• 4 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 2 heaping teaspoons dry mustard
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works well)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Mix in dry mustard and beaten egg.
6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and cheese.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes if you want it baked, or serve immediately for stovetop. Enjoy!

6) Macaroni Fagioli Soup

Macaroni Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that combines pasta, beans, and vegetables. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Start by cooking some chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they soften. Then, add garlic for a bit of zest.

Next, pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in your macaroni pasta, allowing it to cook until tender.

Finally, mix in canned beans of your choice for protein. Season with herbs like oregano and basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup macaroni pasta
• 1 can beans (cannellini or kidney)
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced carrot
• 1 diced celery stalk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
5. Add macaroni and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Stir in beans and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Heat through and serve warm.

7) Simple 25-Minute Mac and Cheese

You can make a delicious mac and cheese in just 25 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.

Start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare a creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

Once the sauce thickens, stir in your favorite cheese until it melts. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and mix well.

Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting dish that everyone loves!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works great)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

8) Hamburger and Macaroni Skillet

The Hamburger and Macaroni Skillet is a quick and tasty meal. You can make this dish using basic ingredients from your pantry. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling.

To start, brown some ground beef in a skillet. Once the beef is cooked, add onions and green peppers for flavor. Stir in uncooked macaroni and your choice of tomato sauce.

Let everything simmer until the pasta is tender. For a cheesy twist, mix in some shredded cheese before serving. This will melt and make the dish even more delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and green pepper. Cook until soft.
3. Stir in the uncooked macaroni and tomato sauce.
4. Add 1 1/2 cups of water.
5. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
6. Mix in the shredded cheese until melted. Serve warm.

9) Gooey Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Gooey cheddar mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that you can easily make at home. The creamy cheese sauce combined with tender pasta creates a delicious dish loved by many.

For this recipe, you will need elbow macaroni and a mix of sharp cheddar and other cheeses. The combination makes the dish extra gooey and tasty.

You start by cooking the macaroni until it’s al dente. Then, make the cheese sauce by melting the cheese with milk and butter. Stir until it’s nice and smooth.

Finally, mix the macaroni with the cheese sauce and serve hot. Enjoy your gooey, cheesy creation!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions.
2. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the milk and cheese, stirring until melted.
4. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

10) Baked Holiday Mac and Cheese

Baked holiday mac and cheese is a comforting dish that everyone loves. Its creamy cheese and soft pasta make it a perfect side for holiday meals. You can add extra flavors with spices or toppings like breadcrumbs.

For the cheese sauce, start with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. This gives you a rich taste and great meltiness. Top it with Panko for a crunchy finish.

You can make this dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving. It’s great for gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to the table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened.
6. Add cheeses, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and mix well.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with Panko breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

11) Cajun Spiced Mac and Cheese

Cajun Spiced Mac and Cheese adds a flavorful twist to a classic dish. This recipe combines creamy cheese with a kick from Cajun spices and andouille sausage. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat in their meals.

Start by cooking elbow macaroni until al dente. While it cooks, sauté sliced sausage in a pan to get it nice and crispy.

Next, make a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk until smooth. Stir in your favorite cheeses, like cheddar and pepper Jack, until melted.

Finally, mix in the cooked pasta and sausage, followed by a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 8 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and pepper Jack)
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, sauté the sliced sausage until crispy.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, stirring until thick.
6. Stir in cheeses until melted.
7. Combine pasta and sausage with cheese sauce.
8. Mix in Cajun seasoning to taste.

12) Traditional American Goulash

Traditional American goulash is a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. It’s a simple one-pot recipe that combines ground beef, macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce.

You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions. The combination of ingredients makes it hearty and satisfying.

Your family will enjoy this meal, especially on chilly nights. It’s quick to prepare and usually takes around 45 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
• 1 cup (250 grams) elbow macaroni
• 1 can (14.5 ounces or 410 grams) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water to the pot. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the pasta is tender.
5. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and serve warm.

13) Cheese and Macaroni Coleslaw

Cheese and macaroni coleslaw is a fun twist on traditional coleslaw. The addition of macaroni makes it hearty, while the cheese adds a creamy texture.

You can use elbow macaroni for a classic feel. Mix it with coleslaw mix, shredded cheese, and your favorite dressing. This salad is great for summer picnics or barbecues.

Customize it by adding diced apples or crunchy veggies. It’s tangy and delicious, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 (14 oz) package coleslaw mix
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, coleslaw mix, and cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss well.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

14) Skillet Macaroni and Cheese

Skillet macaroni and cheese is a quick and easy dish that you can make in just one pan. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a cozy night in.

First, you start by cooking your pasta until it’s tender. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare a delicious cheese sauce. This sauce usually combines milk, butter, and your choice of cheese.

Once the pasta is ready, mix it with the cheese sauce. You can top it with breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Bake it for a short time to get that golden crust.

This dish is comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite among families. Plus, you can easily customize it with add-ins like vegetables or bacon.

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the milk and gradually stir in the cheese until melted.
4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes or until golden.

15) Macaroni with Tomato and Basil Sauce

This macaroni dish is a simple yet tasty way to enjoy pasta. The fresh flavors of tomato and basil really shine through. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Start by boiling your macaroni until it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside.

In a pan, heat some olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

Next, add diced tomatoes and let them cook down. Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper. Combine the sauce with the macaroni.

Serve warm, maybe with some grated cheese on top for extra flavor!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes.
6. Add fresh basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
7. Mix the sauce with the cooked macaroni.
8. Serve warm and add cheese if you like.