Comfort food at its finest – there’s nothing quite like a warm, satisfying bowl of elbow noodles to hit the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy mac and cheese or a spicy stir-fry, elbow noodles are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 deliciously easy recipes that feature elbow noodles as the star of the show.
From classic comfort foods like tuna casserole to international-inspired dishes like vegetarian noodle soup, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is quick and easy to make, so you can get a delicious meal on the table in no time.
So go ahead, grab a package of elbow noodles and get ready to cook up some comforting goodness!
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Elbow Noodles
Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese with Elbow Noodles Recipe
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy any macaroni and cheese craving.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked noodles with cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper.
9. Transfer macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Elbow Noodle Stir-Fry
Spicy Elbow Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary:
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make Spicy Elbow Noodle Stir-Fry recipe. With a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors, crunchy vegetables, and tender noodles, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and snow peas; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until noodles are well coated with the spicy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Elbow Noodle Tuna Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the simplicity of canned tuna with the warmth of elbow noodles, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This classic recipe is a staple in many households and is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 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 mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas and carrots, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the noodle-tuna mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Elbow Noodles
This comforting recipe combines the simplicity of elbow noodles with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the noodles and toss to coat.
6. Transfer the noodle mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Elbow Noodle Chili Mac
A comforting one-pot meal perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the elbow noodles, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Elbow Noodle Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Combine cooked noodles and vegetable mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Elbow Noodle Bake
This classic casserole combines the comfort of elbow noodles with the goodness of broccoli and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow noodles
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the noodles, followed by the broccoli mixture, then the cheese mixture.
5. Pour in milk and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with remaining noodles and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Elbow Noodle Alfredo with Chicken
Savor a comforting bowl of pasta smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, paired with tender chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 12 oz (340g) elbow noodles
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles, chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl. Toss until noodles are well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Elbow Noodle Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect blend of vegetables, noodles, and aromatic spices. With its rich flavor profile, it’s an ideal meal for a chilly day or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 8 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, elbow noodles, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elbow Noodle Carbonara
A rich and satisfying twist on the classic Italian dish, this elbow noodle carbonara recipe combines the comforting warmth of pasta with the indulgent flavors of bacon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) elbow noodles
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add the cooked bacon and Parmesan cheese to the noodle mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Elbow Noodle Casserole
A spicy twist on a classic comfort food, this casserole combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with elbow noodles and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8 ounces elbow noodles
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 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, heat buffalo wing sauce over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine cooked noodles, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle chopped green onions.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Ground Beef Skillet
Quickly cook up a satisfying meal with this hearty skillet recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup elbow noodles
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the elbow noodles, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are al dente and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Elbow Noodle Salad with Italian Dressing
A simple yet satisfying salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the comforting taste of elbow noodles with the tanginess of Italian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and chopped parsley.
4. Pour the dressing mixture over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Elbow Noodle Pasta Primavera
This classic primavera recipe is a colorful and flavorful spring-inspired pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With a medley of sautéed vegetables, garlic, and herbs, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in butter, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Sausage Bake
This comforting casserole combines tender elbow noodles with flavorful sausage, smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stir in canned diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles, sausage mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Pour milk over the top and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elbow Noodle Pesto Pasta
Quickly satisfy your pasta cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the comfort of elbow noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pesto sauce and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Add the cooked elbow noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Spinach Lasagna
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this recipe combines the comfort of elbow noodles with the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar (28 oz) marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create layers of cooked noodles, marinara sauce, spinach mixture, and cheese mixture. Repeat for 2-3 layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Elbow Noodle with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This comforting dish combines tender elbow noodles with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked noodles and mushroom sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Shrimp Scampi
Elbow Noodle and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Summary: This quick and flavorful recipe combines tender shrimp with elbow noodles, garlic butter, and a hint of lemon, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles and shrimp mixture; toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elbow Noodle and Tomato Basil Bake
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of pasta, tangy tomatoes, and savory basil, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow noodles
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup creamy tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in the creamy tomato sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 comforting elbow noodle recipes that are ridiculously easy to make! From classic comfort food like creamy mac and cheese, to international flavors like spicy stir-fry and Italian-inspired pasta primavera, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find plenty of creative twists on old favorites, like buffalo chicken casserole and shrimp scampi. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a satisfying soup, or a quick weeknight dinner, these elbow noodle recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
