Are you tired of the same old macaroni and cheese recipe? Look no further! We’ve got 19 creative and delicious twists to take your comfort food game to the next level. From classic combinations like Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese, to bold and spicy options like Spicy Buffalo Macaroni Salad, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of creamy macaroni noodle recipes.
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole, a satisfying salad, or a decadent pizza topping, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. So go ahead, get creative, and give one of these mouthwatering macaroni dishes a try!
Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy-to-make, cheesy baked macaroni dish. With its creamy sauce and gooey melted cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, and paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Macaroni Salad
A twist on traditional macaroni salad, this spicy buffalo version adds a kick of heat from hot sauce and crumbled blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ranch dressing.
3. Add the cooked macaroni, hot sauce, celery, blue cheese, and green onions to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Macaroni Casserole
Garlic Parmesan Macaroni Casserole: A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and macaroni for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 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 garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add cooked macaroni, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Macaroni Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and savory macaroni bake that combines the richness of cheddar with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 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 mixing bowl, combine crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese, milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated evenly.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Macaroni with Truffle Oil
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent and flavorful recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat and the richness of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 drops truffle oil (depending on desired intensity)
– 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lobster meat, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until lobster is heated through.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine with the lobster mixture.
5. Drizzle truffle oil over the top (start with 1 drop and adjust to taste).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Macaroni Skillet
In this quick and easy skillet recipe, tender macaroni is mixed with a flavorful blend of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Sprinkle flour over broccoli and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Combine cooked macaroni with the skillet sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Bake
A creamy, spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or similar)
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, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through. Add Frank’s RedHot sauce; stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, shredded cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Macaroni
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the best of spinach, artichokes, and macaroni.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the artichoke-spinach mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Macaroni with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting, cheesy recipe that combines the richness of three cheeses with a satisfying crunch from breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 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, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Macaroni Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the soup for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the pot; stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A creative twist on a classic comfort food, these Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Peppers combine the creamy pasta dish with the sweetness of roasted peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
5. Stuff each pepper with the Macaroni and Cheese mixture.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pesto Macaroni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of creamy pesto sauce, al dente macaroni, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Pesto Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pesto sauce. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss to combine with tomato-pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Macaroni with Black Beans
Add a flavorful twist to traditional macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of the Southwest. This hearty, one-pot dish combines creamy macaroni with the earthy taste of black beans and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well), for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook 3-4 minutes or until softened.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth, milk, and black beans to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian recipe is a decadent treat that combines al dente pasta, crispy pancetta, and creamy eggs. The result is a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz macaroni
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture in small increments until a creamy sauce forms.
6. Add the crispy pancetta to the pasta and toss until coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Pizza
Macaroni and Cheese Pizza Recipe Summary:
Transform your favorite comfort food into a unique pizza by combining macaroni, cheese, and pizza sauce for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and pizza sauce. Mix well to combine.
4. Grease a pizza stone or baking sheet with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
5. Add the macaroni mixture to the prepared surface, spreading evenly to form a circle.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of macaroni alfredo with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 ounces macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked macaroni and chicken with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macaroni Tuna Casserole
A comforting twist on traditional tuna casserole, this recipe combines macaroni with canned tuna, creamy sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls
Elevate your comfort food game with this unique twist on mac ‘n cheese – a crispy, cheesy egg roll that’s sure to please. This sweet and savory treat combines the classic pasta dish with the fun of an Asian-inspired snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of macaroni
– 2 cups of cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 egg roll wrapper (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, melted butter, shredded cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the macaroni mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Brush edges with soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Fry egg rolls in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macaroni with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting macaroni dish smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium 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 onions and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and mushroom sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your macaroni game with these 19 creamy and delicious recipes that add a twist to the classic dish. From cheesy baked macaroni and cheese to spicy buffalo macaroni salad, garlic parmesan macaroni casserole, and even lobster macaroni with truffle oil, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and indulgent or light and refreshing, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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