Elbow Pasta Recipes

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 07, 2025

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Elbow Pasta Recipes: A Delicious Dive into Culinary Creativity

Elbow macaroni, a pantry staple loved by many, offers endless culinary possibilities beyond the classic macaroni and cheese. Its iconic shape holds sauces beautifully, making it a versatile ingredient for both simple weeknight dinners and more elaborate meals. Let's explore some exciting elbow pasta recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Creamy Tomato Elbow Pasta with Basil

This recipe is a quick and easy crowd-pleaser, perfect for a busy weeknight. The creamy tomato sauce complements the elbow pasta beautifully, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Stir in fresh basil and serve immediately.

Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Elbow Pasta Bake

This baked pasta dish is a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck. The combination of cheesy sauce, savory sausage, and tender broccoli creates a delightful flavor profile. It's also a great way to sneak in extra vegetables!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 (24 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions.
3. While pasta cooks, brown sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
4. Steam or boil broccoli until tender-crisp.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Spicy Tuna Elbow Pasta Salad (Perfect for Summer!)

This vibrant pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful option for warmer weather. The spicy tuna adds a kick, while the crunchy vegetables provide a delightful textural contrast. This is a great make-ahead dish, perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna, drained
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, bell pepper, and sriracha. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss to coat and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully!

These are just a few examples of the many delicious elbow pasta recipes you can create. Don't be afraid to experiment with different sauces, vegetables, and proteins to find your own unique combinations. Happy cooking!