17 Delicious Macaroni Noodle Recipes Everyone Loves

Everyone loves a good macaroni noodle dish, right? Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy comfort food fix, or something a little more gourmet, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 17 Delicious Macaroni Noodle Recipes Everyone Loves, and discover your next favorite meal that’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Let’s get cooking!

Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Kick off your comfort food cravings with this timeless Classic Macaroni and Cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 tbsp of butter
• 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour
• A pinch of salt
• A dash of black pepper
• A splash of hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Tip: Don’t let it brown.
4. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute until golden.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Tip: Reserve some cheese for topping.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using.
8. Combine cheese sauce with macaroni, then transfer to a baking dish.
9. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top. Tip: For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs.
10. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let it cool slightly before serving. The mac and cheese should be creamy inside with a crispy top. Try serving with a side of steamed broccoli for a color contrast.

Spicy Macaroni with Jalapenos

Unleash a fiery twist on a classic with this Spicy Macaroni with Jalapenos. Perfect for those who love a kick in their comfort food.

Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – 1/2 cup diced jalapenos (seeds in for extra heat) – 2 tbsp butter – 1 cup milk – 1 tbsp flour – A pinch of salt – A dash of black pepper

Instructions

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the macaroni for 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute until golden. 3. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form, and cook for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens. 4. Reduce heat to low, add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. 5. Fold in cooked macaroni and diced jalapenos, mixing well to coat. Season with black pepper. 6. Serve hot, garnished with extra jalapenos if desired. Tip: For a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk. Tip: Always reserve some pasta water; it’s perfect for adjusting sauce consistency. Tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation. How the creamy cheese balances the jalapenos’ heat makes every bite exciting. Try topping with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

Creamy Garlic Macaroni

Unbelievably creamy and packed with flavor, this dish is a garlic lover’s dream. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels indulgent.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of elbow macaroni
– 3 tbsp of butter
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of milk
– A splash of heavy cream
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt to season

Instructions

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the pot, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Season with salt as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired. Creamy Garlic Macaroni is best enjoyed immediately, offering a velvety texture and a bold garlic punch. Try topping with crispy breadcrumbs for an added crunch.

Macaroni Salad with Mayonnaise

Great for picnics or potlucks, this macaroni salad is creamy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying. Get ready to mix up a bowl that’ll disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• A splash of apple cider vinegar
• A couple of celery stalks, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to season

Instructions

1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2. Drain the macaroni and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Tip: Rinsing also removes excess starch, preventing the salad from becoming gluey.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and sugar until smooth. Tip: The vinegar adds a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the mayo.
4. Add the cooled macaroni, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Tip: Letting the salad chill for an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then give it one final toss.

Perfectly creamy with a satisfying crunch from the celery and onion, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Try serving it on a bed of lettuce for an extra fresh touch or alongside grilled meats for a hearty meal.

Baked Macaroni with Bread Crumbs

Very few dishes can match the comfort of a creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a crispy bread crumb topping. It’s a classic that never fails to please.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• a splash of olive oil
• a couple of tablespoons of butter
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• a pinch of salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup of bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and cheese until the sauce is smooth. Tip: Keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
4. Mix the cheese sauce with the macaroni. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the macaroni to a baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly on top. Tip: For extra crunch, mix bread crumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Absolutely perfect when served straight from the oven, the macaroni is creamy inside with a satisfyingly crunchy top. Try adding a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Macaroni with Tomato Sauce and Basil

Nothing beats the simplicity and comfort of macaroni with tomato sauce and basil. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of macaroni
• A splash of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• A couple of basil leaves, torn
• Salt, just a pinch
• Pepper, a quick grind

Instructions

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a large pot over high heat.
2. Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.
7. Add the tomato sauce to the macaroni and stir well to combine.
8. Toss in the torn basil leaves and season with a pinch of salt and a quick grind of pepper.
9. Mix everything together and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Always serve this dish hot, with the basil adding a fresh punch to the rich tomato sauce. The macaroni should be al dente, offering a slight bite that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sauce. For a twist, top with grated Parmesan or serve alongside a crisp green salad.

Cheesy Bacon Macaroni

Very few dishes hit the comfort spot like cheesy bacon macaroni. It’s creamy, smoky, and utterly satisfying with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• A pinch of salt
• A dash of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted. Season with a dash of black pepper.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and bacon in a baking dish. Mix well.
8. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Out of the oven, this macaroni is gloriously gooey with a crispy bacon top. Serve it straight from the dish for a rustic touch or garnish with fresh parsley for color.

Macaroni with Mushrooms and Spinach

Vibrant and hearty, this macaroni dish combines earthy mushrooms with fresh spinach for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• a splash of olive oil
• a couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz of mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups of fresh spinach
• a pinch of salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• a dash of red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a large pot over high heat.
2. Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Drain the macaroni and set aside, keeping 1/4 cup of pasta water.
4. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Toss in the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they start to brown.
7. Throw in the spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
8. Mix in the cooked macaroni, reserved pasta water, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
9. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a dash of red pepper flakes before serving.

Unbelievably creamy with a slight crunch from the veggies, this dish shines when topped with extra Parmesan or served alongside a crisp salad.

Macaroni Carbonara

Simple yet satisfying, macaroni carbonara is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Skip the fuss with this straightforward recipe that delivers big flavors.

Ingredients

• 8 oz macaroni
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• A pinch of salt
• A couple of cracks of black pepper
• A splash of olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat but leave a little for flavor.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water, then immediately add the hot pasta to the skillet with bacon.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture. Tip: The residual heat will cook the eggs without scrambling them.
8. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
9. Serve immediately. Creamy and rich, this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a glass of white wine.

Macaroni with Pesto and Pine Nuts

Kickstart your meal with this vibrant Macaroni with Pesto and Pine Nuts, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of macaroni
• A generous handful of fresh basil leaves
• A couple of garlic cloves
• A splash of olive oil
• 1/4 cup of pine nuts
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes.
3. While the pasta cooks, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
4. In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped.
5. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Tip: Scrape down the sides as needed for even blending.
6. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking water.
7. Return the pasta to the pot and mix in the pesto and half of the Parmesan. Tip: Add a splash of the reserved water if the pesto is too thick.
8. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and serve immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan.

Mouthwatering and aromatic, this dish offers a creamy texture with a crunchy bite from the pine nuts. Serve it with a side of grilled chicken or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Macaroni and Beef Casserole

Zesty and hearty, this Macaroni and Beef Casserole is a no-fuss dinner that packs flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in a snap.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• a splash of Worcestershire sauce
• a couple of dashes of salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Combine the beef mixture with the cooked macaroni in a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Perfectly cheesy with a hearty beef flavor, this casserole is a comforting classic. Try serving it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Macaroni with Four Cheeses

Perfect for a cozy night in, this macaroni with four cheeses is creamy, dreamy, and downright irresistible. Packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• A pinch of black pepper
• A splash of hot sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures a perfectly golden top.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the butter.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Tip: Room temperature milk blends smoother.
6. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
7. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, gorgonzola, salt, pepper, and hot sauce until smooth.
8. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni. Tip: Reserve some cheese for topping for extra gooeyness.
9. Transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top.
10. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and slightly crispy on top.

Just out of the oven, it’s creamy with a slight bite from the gorgonzola. Serve with a crisp salad to cut through the richness.

Macaroni with Tuna and Peas

Uncomplicated and hearty, this macaroni with tuna and peas is a weeknight savior. It’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• A can of tuna in water, drained
• A cup of frozen peas
• A couple of tablespoons of olive oil
• A splash of milk
• Half a cup of grated cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, just a pinch

Instructions

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the peas and sauté for 3 minutes until bright green.
3. Drain the macaroni, reserving a splash of pasta water. Tip: The starchy water helps to thicken the sauce.
4. Return the macaroni to the pot. Stir in the tuna, peas, milk, and cheese until the cheese melts. Tip: If too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Buttery cheese coats each noodle, with pops of sweet peas and savory tuna. Try topping with crispy breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Macaroni with Sausage and Peppers

Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, this macaroni with sausage and peppers packs flavor and comfort in every bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 8 oz macaroni
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of cups of chicken broth
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• A handful of grated Parmesan

Instructions

1. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Toss in the sliced peppers and onion, cooking until soft, around 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the macaroni and chicken broth, bringing to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

Delightfully savory with a hint of spice, this dish boasts tender macaroni and juicy sausage. Serve it straight from the pan for a rustic touch or top with extra Parmesan for a cheesy finish.

Macaroni with Lobster and Cream Sauce

Lobster and macaroni come together in this decadent dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for a special dinner that feels luxurious without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 lb macaroni
• 2 lobsters, about 1.5 lbs each
• 2 cups heavy cream
• a splash of white wine
• a couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• a pinch of salt
• a dash of black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the lobsters and cook for 8 minutes. Remove, cool, and extract the meat.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the white wine and let it reduce by half, about 2 minutes. Tip: This step removes the alcohol, leaving behind a rich flavor.
5. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid curdling the cream.
6. Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces and add to the sauce. Stir gently to combine.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Tip: For extra flavor, let it sit for a minute off the heat before serving.

You’ll love the creamy texture paired with the sweet, tender lobster. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic touch or plate it up fancy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Macaroni with Chicken and Broccoli

Here’s a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Macaroni with chicken and broccoli combines comfort food with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• A splash of lemon juice
• A couple of grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and broccoli to the pan. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Finish with a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Stir well.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Now you’ve got a creamy, flavorful dish with tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. Try serving it with a side of garlic bread for an extra comforting meal.

Macaroni with Pumpkin and Sage

Noodles meet their match in this creamy, autumnal macaroni with pumpkin and sage. It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth to any table, effortlessly.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of elbow macaroni – 1 cup of pumpkin puree – A splash of heavy cream – A couple of fresh sage leaves, chopped – 1 tbsp of butter – 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan – Salt to your liking

Instructions

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside. Tip: Save a bit of pasta water to adjust sauce thickness later. 2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté sage until fragrant, about 30 seconds. 3. Stir in pumpkin puree and heavy cream, heating through for 2 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling. 4. Toss the cooked macaroni into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a smoother texture. 5. Mix in Parmesan until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly. Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-packaged. 6. Serve hot, garnished with extra sage or Parmesan if desired. Hints of sage and pumpkin create a velvety sauce that clings to each macaroni piece. Try topping with crispy sage leaves for an extra crunch.

Conclusion

From creamy classics to bold new twists, these 17 macaroni noodle recipes are sure to delight any home cook. Whether you’re craving comfort or seeking something special, there’s a dish here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin the recipes you love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!