Pasta season? These elbow macaroni pasta recipes are simple and delicious. Elbow pasta, often called macaroni, is the foundation of two specific Southern classics we can’t live without: macaroni salad and macaroni and cheese. They are versatile and seasonally suitable and appear on all occasions, from Thanksgiving dinner to summer cookouts.

While some may consider this shape somewhat childish, it is more refined than you imagine. Depending on the recipe, the elbow-shaped pasta lends itself to absorb just the right amount of dressing or cheesy goodness.

While most of these recipes are either pasta salads or variations on macaroni and cheese, we have a few unique ideas you might not have even known about from pudding to casserole.

Elbow Macaroni Pasta Recipes

Here are the Elbow Macaroni pasta recipes:

1. Tabitha Brown’s Vegan Mac and Cheese

Everybody 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.

2. 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, but it also comes together in just two steps, making it an incredibly simple dish.

3. Macaroni Pie

Are you ever in need of macaroni and Cheese that can be easily sliced?

Well, this recipe might just be what you have been looking for. The extra buttery crust might seem like a strange addition, but it just makes this classic even more delicious.

4. Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

All of the recipes on this list should be accessible for almost 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.

5. Classic Macaroni Salad With Ham

Come cookout time, next to the burgers and ribs belongs classic macaroni salad with ham. We simply can’t get enough of this salad, with the fresh bite of pepper and the creaminess of the dressing.

6. Cajun Mac and Cheese

Looking to make mac and cheese your whole meal? This recipe is your answer. It has everything from sausage to veggies.

7. Best Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

We take our words very seriously here at Chefsbase, so when we tell you a recipe is the best ever, you better listen.

What makes this macaroni outstanding? The heavy cream.

8. 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 is the best dinner for a weeknight.

9. Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Many 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.

10. Classic Make-Ahead Macaroni and Cheese

If you have a big crowd coming in for the holidays or a family reunion, this recipe will save you from doing too much the day of.

You put this recipe together the night before and then top with breadcrumbs and bake when you are ready to serve.

11. Baked Mac and Cheese With Bacon

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.

12. Roasted Tomato Macaroni And Cheese

Two Chefsbase 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.

13. Uncle Jack’s Mac-and-Cheese

One of the reviewers for this recipe says this recipe is almost an exact copy of our recipe, and we couldn’t be more flattered.

This version comes from Pam Rawlinson in North Augusta, South Carolina.

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Elbow pasta is the perfect choice for soaking up all of the goodness in this crowd favorite. Smoky bacon enhances the sauce that’s both tangy and packed with the flavors of fresh herb and salty Parmesan cheese for a creamy, can’t-beat dish.

14. Macaroni and Tomatoes

An oldie but a full goodie. This recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples, including tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and canned tomatoes. We enjoy adding herbs and, of course, cheese, to give it an extra flavorful touch.