From weeknight skillet meals to comforting bakes and chilled pasta salads, these elbow macaroni recipes are full of easy, family-friendly dinner ideas.
Everyone has their favorite pasta, but it’s tough to overlook one of the hardest-working, bite-sized shapes: elbow macaroni. From easy skillet dinners to cheese-topped casseroles, elbow macaroni recipes are a weeknight hero. The small size can float in broth and stand up to thick cheese sauce, beans and meat. To show off what this noodle can do, we gathered a range of creative elbow macaroni meals, from kid-approved one-dish pasta recipes to vegetable-loaded soups.
This collection includes easy macaroni dishes for warm weather, like pasta salads, and comfort food recipes, perfect for cooler months. Elbow macaroni cooks fast, so boil it just to al dente or a few minutes less for a casserole, so it doesn’t overcook in the oven. For a chilled recipe, rinse the hot pasta with cold water to stop it from cooking further and then drain well. With a few simple techniques and the right ingredients, a box of elbow macaroni can become a dish worth savoring.
1/54
Pasta Fagioli Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband enjoys my version of this soup so much that he stopped ordering it at restaurants. He’d rather savor the version we can have at home. It’s so easy to make, yet hearty enough to be a full dinner. —Brenda Thomas, Springfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 228 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
2/54
Skillet Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy mac and cheese is so simple it’s almost too easy! Kids really go for the rich cheese flavor, but I’ve never met an adult who didn’t love it just as much. —Ann Bowers, Rockport, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 600 calories, 37g fat (23g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 1185mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
3/54
Chili Mac
From the Recipe Creator:
This chili mac has regularly appeared on my family menus for more than 40 years, and it's never failed to please at potlucks and bring-a-dish gatherings. Sometimes I turn it into soup by adding a can of beef broth. —Marie Posavec, Berwyn, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 348 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 713mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 12g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat.
4/54
Hoosier Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
This chili is a little sweeter than other recipes I’ve tasted, but I like it that way. It reminds me of the chili my mom used to make. —Jeanne Boberg, Muncie, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 227 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 866mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 20g protein.
5/54
Chicken and Sausage Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
This thick and rich stew will warm your family right up even on the coldest days! I like to serve it with biscuits or cornbread to soak up every last drop, it's that good. —Ernest Foster, Climax, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 531 calories, 33g fat (10g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 912mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
6/54
Macaroni and Cheese with Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Prep once and feed the family twice when you double this chicken mac and cheese and freeze half of it. I created it for the people I love most, using ingredients they love most. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 586 calories, 37g fat (15g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 889mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
7/54
Macaroni Salad Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
This macaroni salad recipe is a refreshingly light take on an all-time favorite. It's perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a festive weekend barbecue. —Dorothy Bayes, Sardis, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 115 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
8/54
Chili Mac Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 758mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
9/54
Sweet Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
A sweet out-of-the-ordinary dressing makes this macaroni salad special. My aunt gave me the recipe and it has become one of my favorites. I occasionally leave out the green pepper if I know that people don't like it, and it still tastes great. —Idalee Scholz, Cocoa Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 400 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
10/54
Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Many years ago after I had had knee surgery, a friend brought me a big casserole of mac and cheese along with the recipe. I have fiddled with the recipe over the years, most recently adding jalapenos at the request of my son. What an awesome spicy twist! —Teresa Gustafson, Elkton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 428 calories, 27g fat (13g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 654mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
11/54
De-Lightful Tuna Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This mild, homemade tuna casserole will truly satisfy your family's craving for comfort food without all the fat! —Colleen Willey, Hamburg, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 329 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 684mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 2 lean meat.
12/54
Vegan Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
All the classic flavors come through in this vegan macaroni salad, from the pickle relish to the ground mustard. The only thing you’ll be missing is leftovers! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 93 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
13/54
Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This is by far the creamiest, tastiest and most special macaroni and cheese I have ever tried. I'm not usually a fan of the homemade kind, but when a friend served this mac and cheese with cream cheese, I had to have the recipe. Since it's so little fuss and well received, it's a terrific potluck dish. —Catherine Odgen, Middlegrove, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 468 calories, 31g fat (18g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 604mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
14/54
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I had to figure out how to make Hawaiian macaroni salad at home because my husband was getting tired of ordering enough for our whole family from a local restaurant. Sometimes I use green onions and serve the salad with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. —Blaine Kahle, Florence, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 464 calories, 33g fat (5g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 353mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
15/54
Bacon Mac ‘N Cheese Cornbread Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
My cast-iron skillet is a workhorse in my kitchen. I just love it for cooking and baking. And this cast-iron mac and cheese recipe can be served as a main dish or as a smaller-portion side. —Lisa Keys, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 497 calories, 27g fat (13g saturated fat), 203mg cholesterol, 978mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
16/54
Potluck Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll always have a winner at the potluck when you bring macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 388 calories, 28g fat (17g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 652mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 17g protein.
17/54
Bacon Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Jalapeno pepper adds an extra kick to this bacon mac and cheese, giving it great grown-up taste. I serve this comforting dish throughout the year.—Shelly Boehm, South Bend, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 438 calories, 26g fat (13g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 1106mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.
18/54
Minestrone with Turkey
From the Recipe Creator:
I remember my mom making this soup; now I make it for my kids as often as I can. It's a good way to use up leftover vegetables. Sometimes I add a can of rinsed and drained kidney or garbanzo beans. —Angela Goodman, Kaneohe, Hawaii
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups (calculated without cheese): 172 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 1251mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 12g protein.
19/54
Cashew Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I especially like this dish because I can get it ready the day before I need it. It's easy to whip up with common pantry items, including macaroni, canned soup and saltine crackers. —Julie Ridlon, Solway, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 464 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1095mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein.
20/54
Southwestern Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 321 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 673mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein.
21/54
Sicilian Mac & Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
To give our mac and cheese a Sicilian touch, we mix sausage, basil and fennel with three cheeses for an incredibly comforting casserole. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 814 calories, 49g fat (25g saturated fat), 189mg cholesterol, 1610mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 37g protein.
22/54
Dinner in a Bag
From the Recipe Creator:
I get a head start on this family-pleasing dinner by assembling ready-to-grab pantry kits. I measure dry macaroni and the spice mixture into separate containers, storing them in a paper bag with canned tomatoes. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 289 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 858mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
23/54
Minestrone Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This minestrone soup recipe is special to me because it’s one of the few dinners my entire family loves. And I can feel good about serving it because it’s full of nutrition and low in fat. —Lauren Brennan, Hood River, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 180 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 443mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat.
24/54
Easy Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty pasta salad is sure to please appetites of all ages—and it serves a lot of folks! —LaVerna Mjones, Moorhead, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 380 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 615mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
25/54
Mac and Cheese Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. To my surprise, it was the adults who devoured these mini mac and cheese bites. —Kate Mainiero, Elizaville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 91 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
26/54
Philly-Style Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
My son loves macaroni and cheese, and I’m always looking for ways to sneak in some veggies. This version is a huge hit! —Jennifer Berry, Lexington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 635 calories, 41g fat (22g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 921mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 34g protein.
27/54
Macaroni and Beef
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this simple skillet recipe many years ago on a can label. I made some tweaks, and my family loved it. Because it's so easy to put together, it's a real timesaver for people with super busy schedules. —Maxine Neuhauser, Arcadia, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 317 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
28/54
Hamburger Macaroni Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom often made this casserole when I was growing up, and it was one of my favorite meals. It tastes terrific with a salad and rolls. —Judy Hluchy, Mt. Prospect, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 357 calories, 18g fat (9g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 721mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
29/54
Southwestern Goulash
From the Recipe Creator:
I had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! —Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 224 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 567mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
30/54
Veggie Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy mac and cheese definitely doesn't come from a box! Fresh veggies add crunch and color and will leave everyone asking for seconds. —Marsha Morril, Harrisburg, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 200 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 391mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
31/54
Easy Chili Mac
From the Recipe Creator:
This combines chili with one of my favorite pasta dishes. I often serve it for company or potlucks and occasionally add taco seasoning or use beanless chili and add black beans. —Lee Steinmetz, Lansing, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 422 calories, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 898mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 30g protein.
32/54
Creamy Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
When we grill, my mother asks me to make this creamy macaroni salad. To make it extra creamy, I like to keep a small amount of dressing separate and stir it in just before serving. —Carly Curtin, Ellicott City, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 160 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
33/54
Italian Three-Cheese Macaroni
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband is a self-proclaimed mac-and-cheese connoisseur and says that this is his favorite version. The Italian seasoning and tomatoes really complement the pasta and cheeses. —Adriane Mummert, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 402 calories, 23g fat (13g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 763mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
34/54
Baked Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Even people who have had their own homemade baked macaroni and cheese recipe for years ask for mine when they taste this crumb-topped version. For the best baked mac and cheese, use extra-sharp cheddar cheese for more flavor. —Shelby Thompson, Dover, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 688 calories, 37g fat (21g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
35/54
Mexican Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This is the yummiest, quickest recipe I have. There’s no need to precook the macaroni. Everything comes together in one smart skillet. —Maurane Ramsey, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 318 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 755mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
36/54
BLT Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
After a friend served this BLT pasta salad, I just had to get the recipe. My husband loves BLT sandwiches, so this has become a favorite of his. It's nice to serve on hot and humid days, which we frequently get during summer here in Virginia. —Mrs. Hamilton Myers Jr., Charlottesville, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 259 calories, 17g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 287mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
37/54
Macaroni Salad with Pickles
From the Recipe Creator:
After finding this vintage macaroni salad recipe years ago, I tweaked the flavor and bumped up the pickles. Tuck this dill pickle pasta salad inside your picnic basket. —Elizabeth Kirchgatter, Maysville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 347 calories, 28g fat (6g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 413mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
38/54
Bean Counter Chowder
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty chowder is one of our favorite vegetarian dishes. Loaded with beans, noodles and bright herbs, it's so comforting on a chilly day. —Vivian Haen, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 196 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 676mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
39/54
Spicy Goulash
From the Recipe Creator:
Ground cumin, chili powder and a can of Mexican diced tomatoes jazz up my goulash recipe. Even the elbow macaroni is prepared in the slow cooker. —Melissa Polk, West Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 222 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 585mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 6g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
40/54
Makeover Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
With its creamy consistency and two different cheeses, this entree captures the essence of comfort food. But here's the kicker: it's been slimmed down for you so you can enjoy it without over indulging. —Darcie Zerniak, Ontario, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 394 calories, 18g fat (11g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 842mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
41/54
Quick Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
You can’t go wrong with this time-tested winner. Here it is pared down for two.—Carma Blosser, Livermore, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 276 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 544mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
42/54
Meatless Chili Mac
From the Recipe Creator:
I came across this recipe in a newspaper years ago and it’s been a hit at our house ever since. It’s fast and flavorful, and it appeals to all ages. —Cindy Ragan, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 206 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable,1 lean meat.
43/54
Bacon Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This pleasing pasta salad is like eating a BLT in a bowl. Filled with crispy bacon, chopped tomato, celery and green onion, the sensational salad is coated with a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar dressing. It’s a real crowd-pleaser! —Norene Wright, Manilla, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 402 calories, 33g fat (6g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
44/54
Broccoli Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband made a version of this casserole for me on our first date. Over the 11 years we’ve been married, we’ve made
several changes to the
ingredients and now it’s even better than the original. —Lisa DeMarsh, Mount Solon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 335 calories, 21g fat (12g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 331mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
45/54
Crockpot Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic casserole is a rich and cheesy meatless main dish. I've never met anyone who didn't ask for a second helping. —Bernice Glascoe, Roxboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 502 calories, 28g fat (18g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
46/54
Chicken Florentine Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Creamy and comforting, this chicken and spinach bake is sure to be a hit at dinnertime. The toasty bread crumb topping delivers a bit of a crunch. —Dori Jackson, Gulf Breeze, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 539 calories, 36g fat (13g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 1006mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
47/54
Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Bring back the taste of days gone by with this ooey-gooey classic. A little ground mustard and hot pepper sauce give this old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese just the right spice. —James Backman, Centralia, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 267 calories, 17g fat (10g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 425mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.
48/54
Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was a girl, Mama used Texas longhorn cheese in this recipe. After it melted all over the macaroni, I loved to dig in and see how many strings of cheese would follow my spoonful. —Imogene Hutton, Brownwood, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 388 calories, 22g fat (15g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
49/54
Macaroni and Cheese Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
I have worked in the food service industry for too many years to count and have made this one-of-a-kind soup at many different jobs. It's always been a big hit. —Emma Head, Sunrise Beach, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 261 calories, 17g fat (11g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 619mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
50/54
Salami & Provolone Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone needs a perfect pasta salad that’s easy to make, especially on busy nights when your family wants a dish that’s fast, light and cool. This is just the thing. —Jill Donley, Warsaw, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup (calculated without optional ingredients): 244 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 575mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
51/54
Makeover Creamy Mac & Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Macaroni and cheese just may be king of the comfort foods. This sensational version is bubbling with creamy goodness—but is lighter on calories. —April Taylor, Holcomb, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup (calculated without optional topping): 343 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 354mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
52/54
Turkey Chili with Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
Some may call it witches’ stew, but we think this hearty chili is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a perfect warmer on chilly autumn nights. —Pat Schmeling, Germantown, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without optional toppings): 258 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 987mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 7g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
53/54
Southern Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
No down-home meal is complete without southern mac and cheese. Three types of cheese and a squirt of mustard make this comforting dish sing! —Katie Sloan, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 830 calories, 45g fat (30g saturated fat), 213mg cholesterol, 1368mg sodium, 67g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 39g protein.
54/54
Pepperoni Macaroni
From the Recipe Creator:
An everyday pasta bake gets jazzed up with pepperoni, sausage and olives. Because it can be assembled ahead of time and baked right before serving, it’s my handy go-to when I need something on the fly. —Marlene Mohr, Cincinnati, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 334 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 1041mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 16g protein.
Elbow Macaroni Recipes FAQ
What meals can I make with elbow macaroni?
Elbow macaroni’s small size works in a wide range of quick and easy family dinners, like hearty soups, chili and fresh salads. It’s also the go-to pasta choice for mac and cheese because the short tubes hold onto the sauce well to create the ideal ratio of cheese to noodle. These creative elbow macaroni meals come together with everyday ingredients like ground meat, canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables and shredded cheese, and are adaptable to what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make mac and cheese healthier?
Mac and cheese can be made healthier in a few different ways, depending on what healthy means to you. Use whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein. Blend cooked, mild vegetables, like butternut squash or cauliflower, into the sauce for extra nutrients while keeping the texture velvety. Try whole-wheat bread crumbs or crushed nuts instead of buttery crackers or potato chips for a crunchy topping. These swaps work well in other casserole recipes, too, for nutrient-rich meals.
What are gluten-free substitutes for elbow macaroni?
There are a lot of great gluten-free pasta substitutes for elbow macaroni made from rice, corn, lentils, quinoa or chickpeas. Each option has a slightly different texture and taste, so use the one you prefer. These alternatives work well in both cold salads and warm bakes. Just follow the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can overcook quickly and become mushy. Pair your gluten-free pasta with homemade pasta sauce recipes for a fast, flavorful meal.
