Baked Elbow Macaroni With Spaghetti Sauce
Baked elbow macaroni with spaghetti sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are having a family dinner, a potluck, or just want to enjoy a tasty and filling meal, this recipe is sure to please. It is a classic dish that has been around for generations, and for good reason. It is hearty, flavorful, and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the melted butter, and whisk constantly until it is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually stir in the milk, and continue to whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the spaghetti sauce to the mixture and stir well.
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the spaghetti sauce mixture and stir well.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and grated parmesan cheese until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked elbow macaroni with spaghetti sauce cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, and it is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even as leftovers for lunch the next day. The combination of creamy cheese and tangy spaghetti sauce is a match made in heaven, and it is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Substitute the spaghetti sauce for alfredo sauce for a creamier version of this dish.
- Add vegetables such as chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, or sliced mushrooms to the macaroni and cheese mixture for a healthier and more colorful version of this dish.
- Top the macaroni and cheese mixture with breadcrumbs and bake for an extra crispy topping.
- Use different types of cheese such as provolone, fontina, or gouda for a more unique flavor profile.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a different texture and shape.
Conclusion
Baked elbow macaroni with spaghetti sauce is a classic dish that is easy to make and always delicious. With its creamy cheese and tangy spaghetti sauce, it is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Plus, it is versatile and can be customized to your liking. So, the next time you are looking for a crowd-pleasing meal, give this recipe a try.
