Best 10 How To Make Macaroni Casserole Recipes

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Macaroni casserole is a delectable dish that has delighted taste buds for generations. Its comforting combination of macaroni noodles, cheese, and a creamy sauce has earned it a place as a family favorite. This versatile casserole can be customized with a variety of ingredients, making it a perfect canvas for culinary creativity.

From traditional macaroni and cheese to more adventurous variations like bacon and broccoli or spicy chicken, this article presents a collection of macaroni casserole recipes that cater to diverse preferences. Each recipe provides step-by-step instructions, ensuring that even novice cooks can create this classic dish with ease.

Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of the Classic Macaroni and Cheese recipe, where sharp cheddar and creamy béchamel sauce coat the macaroni noodles in a symphony of cheesy goodness. Explore the Tex-Mex Macaroni Casserole recipe, where seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese blend together for a fiesta of flavors.

For those seeking a healthier option, the Lightened Macaroni and Cheese recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence with reduced-fat cheese and whole wheat macaroni. And for a vegetarian delight, the Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni Casserole recipe combines tender broccoli florets with a velvety cheddar cheese sauce, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish.

Whether you prefer a classic comfort food or a more adventurous culinary journey, this collection of macaroni casserole recipes has something for everyone. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a delicious adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Here are our top 10 tried and tested recipes!

GROUND BEEF MACARONI CASSEROLE



Ground Beef Macaroni Casserole image

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

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 45m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 package (7 ounces) elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) Italian tomato sauce
1 large egg
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1-1/2 cups 2% milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Steps:

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in tomato sauce; heat through., Drain macaroni; transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the egg, soup, milk, butter and parsley; pour over macaroni. Spoon beef mixture over top; sprinkle with cheese., Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 357 calories, Fat 18g fat (9g saturated fat), Cholesterol 91mg cholesterol, Sodium 721mg sodium, Carbohydrate 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

MACARONI AND CHEESE CASSEROLE



Macaroni and Cheese Casserole image

I like to create recipes, and this is one my husband really enjoys. It's an excellent dish for company, especially for families with small children. After all, what kid doesn't like macaroni and cheese?

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 4-6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

1-1/2 cups whole milk
1-1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1 cup elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
3 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup diced pimientos
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until bubbles form around the edge of pan. Remove from the heat; stir in the cheese and butter. Let stand for 1 minute. Stir until cheese is almost melted. Stir in bread crumbs. In a bowl, combine the macaroni, egg yolks, pimientos, parsley, onion and salt. Stir in cheese mixture; mix well. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into macaroni mixture. Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until puffed and lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts :

MACARONI AND BEEF CASSEROLE



Macaroni and Beef Casserole image

This is a macaroni and ground beef casserole recipe, and it makes a great-tasting dinner for any night of the week.

Provided by Diana Rattray

Categories     Dinner     Entree

Time 45m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 12

8 ounces macaroni
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1 rib celery, chopped
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (32 ounce) jar prepared spaghetti sauce (or your favorite)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Steps:

  • Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
  • Fill a pasta pot with cold water and set on a burner over medium-high heat. When the pasta water comes to a boil, salt the water , stir and taste. It should taste like the sea. Undersalted? Add more. Oversalted? Pour out some water and add fresh water until you get the right balance.
  • While the water is coming to a boil, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, onion, bell pepper, and celery. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and cook, stirring, for about 3 to 4 minutes, until tender.
  • Add tomato paste and stir to incorporate into the vegetables, for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
  • Add the ground beef and season with another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until no longer pink.
  • Add the spaghetti sauce. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Pour pasta into boiling salted water gradually while stirring the water. When the water returns to a boil, begin the cooking time as directed by the packaging for al dente doneness. Drain.
  • Add pasta to meat sauce. Stir to blend.
  • Transfer half of the mixture to a 2 1/2- to 3-quart baking dish and top with half of the cheese. Add remaining mixture and top with remaining cheese.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and the mixture is bubbly.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 577 kcal, Carbohydrate 24 g, Cholesterol 124 mg, Fiber 4 g, Protein 38 g, SaturatedFat 15 g, Sodium 1095 mg, Sugar 9 g, Fat 36 g, ServingSize 6 servings, UnsaturatedFat 0 g

MACARONI TUNA CASSEROLE



Macaroni Tuna Casserole image

This dish is so easy to fix, and the flavor is better than any tuna helper I've ever tried. It was a staple when I was in college since a box of macaroni and cheese and a can of tuna cost so little. -Suzanne Zick, Osceola, Arkansas

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 35m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 package (7-1/4 ounces) macaroni and cheese
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted
1 can (5 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Minced fresh parsley, optional

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°. Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions. Stir in soup, tuna and milk. Pour into a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and, if desired, parsley. Bake, uncovered, 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 522 calories, Fat 29g fat (15g saturated fat), Cholesterol 81mg cholesterol, Sodium 1208mg sodium, Carbohydrate 21g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 22g protein.

HEARTY MACARONI CASSEROLE



Hearty Macaroni Casserole image

Give Jack Frost the cold shoulder by setting a comforting hot dish on the table. This hearty meal-in-one will satisfy even the biggest of appetites. Enjoy one casserole and freeze the other, or serve them both when entertaining. -Joy Sauers, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 2 casseroles (4 servings each).

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 package (7-1/4 ounces) macaroni and cheese dinner mix
1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup French-fried onions

Steps:

  • Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef, green pepper and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add to prepared macaroni. Stir in tomatoes., Divide half of mixture between two greased 1-1/2-qt. baking dishes; sprinkle each with 1/2 cup cheese. Top with remaining mixture., Sprinkle remaining cheese over one casserole. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Sprinkle the second casserole with French-fried onions. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through., To use frozen casserole: Completely thaw in the refrigerator. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake as directed.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 470 calories, Fat 29g fat (18g saturated fat), Cholesterol 115mg cholesterol, Sodium 795mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 28g protein.

EASY MACARONI CASSEROLE



Easy Macaroni Casserole image

Make and share this Easy Macaroni Casserole recipe from Food.com.

Provided by MsBaton

Categories     Cheese

Time 55m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 (8 ounce) package elbow macaroni
1 bell pepper
1 cup celery
1 cup onion
1 cup tomatoes
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup margarine
1 (16 ounce) package of grated cheese

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Cook macaroni and drain.
  • Chop up onion, bell pepper and celery into small pieces.
  • In skillet, melt butter and cook onions, celery, and bell pepper in butter until tender.
  • Then add tomatoes and soup.
  • Cook about three to five minutes longer.
  • In casserole dish put a layer of macaroni, a layer of soup mixture, and a layer of cheese.
  • Repeat layers, ending with cheese on the top.
  • Bake until cheese melts.

HAMBURGER MACARONI CASSEROLE



Hamburger Macaroni Casserole image

Working full-time and attending school part-time leaves me little time for fancy meals. My family enjoys hearty helpings of this casserole, alongside a salad, bread and dessert.-Dawn Farris, Pekin, Illinois

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 40m

Yield 6-8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
12 ounces process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
1-1/2 cups milk
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 cup diced seeded tomatoes
1/3 cup sliced green onions
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. In a large saucepan, combine cheese and milk. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in the beef, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions and cayenne; remove from the heat., Drain macaroni and stir into beef mixture. Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Cover and bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Uncover and stir mixture; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake 5-10 minutes longer or until bubbly.

Nutrition Facts :

TOMATO MACARONI CASSEROLE



Tomato Macaroni Casserole image

I dress up cooked macaroni with four flavorful ingredients. This dish is one of my husband's favorites. - Karen Smith, Thornton, Colorado

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 15m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 5

4 cups cooked elbow macaroni
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, divided
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Steps:

  • In a greased 11x7-in. microwave-safe dish, combine the macaroni, tomatoes and 3/4 cup cheese; mix well. Cover and microwave on high for 2 to 2-1/2 minutes; stir. Cover and heat 45 seconds longer. , Sprinkle with bacon and remaining cheese. Microwave, uncovered, for 20-40 seconds longer or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 369 calories, Fat 14g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 35mg cholesterol, Sodium 739mg sodium, Carbohydrate 44g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 16g protein.

BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE



Baked Macaroni and Cheese image

A friend of mine sent this recipe to me when I got my first apartment, because she knows how much I hate cooking! It's really easy -- even I can make it -- and tastes great. I'm not sure where she found the recipe, but it included the note 'Good source of protein, vitamin A, B group vitamins, calcium.'

Provided by Meredith

Categories     Main Dish Recipes     Pasta     Macaroni and Cheese Recipes     Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes

Yield 3

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 (12 ounce) package macaroni
1 egg
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  • In a large pot of salted water, lightly boil the macaroni for about 5 minutes until half-cooked.
  • Whisk the egg and milk together in a large cup. Add butter and cheese to the egg and milk. Stir well.
  • Place the lightly cooked macaroni in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg and cheese liquid over the macaroni, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and stir well. Press the mixture evenly around the baking dish.
  • Bake uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is brown.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 968.1 calories, Carbohydrate 92.6 g, Cholesterol 194.2 mg, Fat 45.4 g, Fiber 3.6 g, Protein 45.6 g, SaturatedFat 27.6 g, Sodium 736 mg, Sugar 11.2 g

EASIEST CHICKEN MACARONI CASSEROLE



Easiest Chicken Macaroni Casserole image

I found this recipe while browsing through my Betty Crocker cookbook and thought it sounded tasty. I love that you don't have to pre-cook the pasta. The original recipe called for curry powder but I also like it with chili powder for something totally different (if using chili powder, you will want to double the amount). Also a good use for that leftover holiday turkey!

Provided by flower7

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 1h15m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken or 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup milk (I use skim)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon curry powder or 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup (I use low sodium, 98% fat free)
7 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 (4 ounce) can mushroom pieces, undrained
1 (2 ounce) jar diced pimentos, undrained

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Mix all ingredients together in an ungreased 11"x7" casserole dish.
  • Cover and bake until macaroni is tender, about 55 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 516.2, Fat 20.5, SaturatedFat 9.8, Cholesterol 83.8, Sodium 1077.9, Carbohydrate 49.9, Fiber 2.3, Sugar 2.9, Protein 32

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients. This means using fresh vegetables, real cheese, and high-quality pasta.
  • Don't overcook the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, but be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and will not hold its shape well in the casserole.
  • Use a good quality cheese. The type of cheese you use will have a big impact on the flavor of the casserole. Use a cheese that melts well and has a good flavor.
  • Add some vegetables. Vegetables add flavor, color, and nutrients to the casserole. You can use any vegetables you like, but some good options include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and peas.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to make macaroni casserole. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find a recipe that you love.

Conclusion:

Macaroni casserole is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a weeknight meal. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make a macaroni casserole that is delicious and satisfying.

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