16 Classic Elbow Pasta Recipes Beyond Mac And Cheese
Elbow pasta, often referred to as macaroni, is the foundation of two specific Southern classics that we cannot live without: macaroni salad and macaroni and cheese. They are versatile and seasonally-appropriate and show up at all occasions, from Thanksgiving dinner to summer cookouts. While some may consider this shape somewhat childish, it is more refined than you think. The elbow shaped pasta lends itself to absorb just the right amount of dressing or cheesy goodness depending on the recipe. While most of these recipes are either pasta salads or variations on macaroni and cheese, we’ve got a few unique ideas you might not have even known about from pudding to casserole.
Macaroni Pudding
We've upped the ante on your traditional macaroni and cheese and transformed it into Macaroni Pudding. Even though it seems a bit fancier, it's actually quite simple to assemble.
Tabitha Brown's Vegan Mac And Cheese
Greg DuPree, Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Styling: Audrey Davis
Everyone can enjoy mac and cheese at the table with Tabitha Brown's Vegan Mac And Cheese. A thoughtful combination of a russet potato, butternut squash, and more makes this dish rich and creamy without the cheese.
Bacon-Ranch Pasta Salad
A packet of ranch seasoning goes a long way in Bacon-Ranch Pasta Salad. Not only does this recipe make enough to feed your entire party, it also comes together in just two steps, making it an incredibly simple dish.
Macaroni Pie
Are you ever in need of mac and cheese that can be easily sliced? Well, this recipe might just be what you've been looking for. The extra buttery crust might seem like a strange addition, but it just makes this classic even more delicious.
Stovetop Macaroni And Cheese
Morgan Hunt Glaze; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
All of the recipes on this list should be accessible for most any home cook, but our Stovetop Macaroni And Cheese might just be the easiest. Everything comes together on the stove and every bite is nostalgic.
Classic Macaroni Salad With Ham
Come cookout time, next to the burgers and ribs belongs Classic Macaroni Salad With Ham. We simply cannot get enough of this salad, with the fresh bite of pepper and the creaminess of the dressing.
Cajun Mac And Cheese
Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey
Looking to make mac and cheese your entire meal? This recipe is your answer. It has everything from sausage to veggies.
Best-Ever Macaroni And Cheese
We take our words very seriously here at Southern Living, so when we tell you a recipe is the best ever, you better listen. What makes this macaroni stand out? The heavy cream.
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Maybe you remember seeing Sloppy Joe Casserole in your lunchroom cafeterias or summer camp socials, but this version is something everyone will enjoy. It's the perfect dinner for a weeknight.
Fried Mac And Cheese Bites
Several restaurant chains serve these delicious bundles of goodness, but you can make them at home for the perfect dinner party or sleepover snack. We roll them in panko to get a crunchy layer on the outside.
Classic Make-Ahead Macaroni And Cheese
If you've got a big crowd coming in for the holidays or a family reunion, this recipe will save you from doing too much day-of. You put this recipe together the night before and them top with breadcrumbs and bake when you're ready to serve.
Herbed Breadcrumb-Topped Macaroni And Cheese
Breadcrumbs might be a slightly controversial addition to your mac and cheese, but we find they add another layer of goodness to this family favorite.
Baked Mac And Cheese With Bacon
Alison Miksch; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Melty cheese meets its match with crispy bacon in our Baked Mac And Cheese With Bacon. A medley of cheeses makes this recipe rich enough to be enjoyed at even the most elegant of dinner parties.
Roasted Tomato Macaroni And Cheese
Two Southern favorites are better than one, and our Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese is just the thing your barbecue needs this summer. We bake the tomatoes to give them added roasted flavor.
Navi Kitchen Tikka Masala Macaroni And Cheese
Add a little extra spice and flavor to your dinner with the Navi Kitchen Tikka Masala Macaroni And Cheese. Cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and other spices add next level flavor.
Uncle Jack's Mac-And-Cheese
One of the reviewers for this recipe says this recipe is almost an exact copy of their Southern Grandmother's recipe, and we couldn't be more flattered. This version comes from Pam Rawlinson in North Augusta, South Carolina.
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