Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Elbow noodles are a staple in many kitchens, and when paired with the right ingredients, they can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent trying to get dinner on the table quickly, elbow noodles are a great option.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different recipes that use elbow noodles as the main ingredient. From creamy mac and cheese with bacon to spicy Cajun skillet dinners, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all quick and easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these recipes and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make them. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with these tasty and easy elbow noodle recipes.
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Bacon
This recipe combines the creamiest macaroni and cheese sauce with crispy, smoky bacon for a comforting twist on a classic dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon 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, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and melt. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Cajun Elbow Noodle Skillet
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and flavorful skillet dish! This Spicy Cajun Elbow Noodle Skillet is a hearty, one-pot wonder that combines the richness of sausage, the kick of Cajun seasoning, and the comfort of elbow noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add elbow noodles and chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until noodles are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Elbow Noodle Casserole
A comforting, flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering. This easy-to-make dish combines the classic comfort of elbow noodles with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. In another bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked noodles, garlic-butter mixture, and cheese mixture. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Cheesy Elbow Noodle Chili
This comforting one-pot chili recipe combines tender elbow noodles with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal prep work and cooking time, this dish is ideal for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as needed.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, milk, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add elbow noodles and stir until coated in the sauce.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cook until melted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Vegan Elbow Noodle Alfredo
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying vegan take on the classic Alfredo sauce. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup unsweetened soy milk or non-dairy creamer
– 2 teaspoons vegan butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, soy milk or non-dairy creamer, and vegan butter or margarine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Toss cooked noodles with the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Elbow Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the tanginess of olives and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all nestled among a bed of soft elbow noodles. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine olives, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Elbow Noodle Tuna Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender tuna, creamy sauce, and crunchy noodles for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in garlic, peas and carrots, tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the tuna mixture; transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Elbow Noodle Bake
A spicy twist on classic comfort food, this recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy elbow noodles for a satisfying and flavorful casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and stir until coated with the chicken mixture.
5. Pour in milk and butter, stirring until creamy and smooth.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Elbow Noodle Carbonara with Peas
This classic Italian dish gets a fresh twist by adding sweet and tender peas to the mix, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this creamy pasta in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Add the frozen peas to the skillet and stir to combine with the remaining oil and pancetta drippings. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thawed.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Combine the cooked noodles, pea mixture, and egg mixture in the skillet. Stir over low heat until the eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Elbow Noodle Casserole
A flavorful twist on classic casserole recipes, this Southwest-inspired dish combines the comfort of elbow noodles with the bold flavors of the American Southwest. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and corn kernels; cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, tomato mixture, and shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the noodle mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elbow Noodle Soup with Vegetables
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines tender vegetables with soft elbow noodles and a hint of cream. With its rich aroma and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, add the elbow noodles, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
5. Stir in the milk or cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Elbow Noodle Lasagna
Baked Elbow Noodle Lasagna: A Creative Twist on a Classic
This recipe puts a spin on the traditional lasagna by using elbow noodles instead of traditional lasagna sheets. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, meat sauce, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. Transfer noodle mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Elbow Noodle Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe combines the comfort of elbow noodles with the savory flavors of soy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and cooked noodles; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elbow Noodle Pasta Primavera
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and refreshing pasta dish, featuring a colorful medley of vegetables and tender elbow noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, carrots, green beans, and snap peas)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked elbow noodles, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Elbow Noodle and Broccoli Bake
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the simplicity of elbow noodles with the flavor of steamed broccoli and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. elbow noodles
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Steam broccoli florets until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Set aside with noodles.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked noodles and broccoli in a baking dish. Pour cheesy sauce over the top and mix well.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Noodle Goulash with Ground Beef
This comforting dish is a staple of American comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. A rich and flavorful sauce coats tender elbow noodles and savory ground beef, making it an instant family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Gradually add the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine the cooked noodles with the meat mixture. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Sausage Skillet
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in elbow noodles, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until noodles are tender.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Spinach Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering. This Elbow Noodle and Spinach Casserole combines the creaminess of cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach and the convenience of elbow noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, spinach mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Pour in milk and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elbow Noodle with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe is a flavorful and colorful twist on traditional pasta dishes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With the creaminess of pesto and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cooked noodles, pesto, and cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the pesto sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Meatball Bake
A comforting, one-dish meal that combines the simplicity of elbow noodles with the heartiness of homemade meatballs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz elbow noodles
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine crushed tomatoes and cooked noodles. Stir in meatballs.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to upgrade your weeknight meals with these 20 mouthwatering elbow noodle recipes! From creamy mac and cheese with bacon to Mediterranean elbow noodle salad, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick and easy meal, this collection of recipes has got you covered. With dishes ranging from cheesy casseroles to hearty skillets and soups, you’ll never get bored with these delicious options.
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