Elbow Macaroni

• Classic Mac and Cheese: Elbow macaroni is the quintessential pasta for creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese. Its curved shape perfectly cradles the cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Use it in both stovetop and baked mac and cheese recipes for a comforting family favorite.
• Cold Pasta Salads: Cooked and cooled elbow macaroni adds a hearty base to pasta salads. Combine it with vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a creamy dressing or vinaigrette for a refreshing summer side dish. Consider adding protein like ham, chicken, or tuna for a more substantial meal.
• Baked Pasta Dishes: Elbow macaroni is excellent in baked pasta casseroles, such as tuna noodle casserole or baked ziti. Its shape holds up well during baking, creating a satisfying texture and absorbing the flavors of the sauce and other ingredients. Layer it with sauce, cheese, and vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.
• Soups and Stews: Add elbow macaroni to soups and stews for added body and texture. It cooks quickly and easily, making it a convenient addition to hearty vegetable soups, chicken noodle soup, or minestrone. Just be sure to add it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Pasta Bakes for Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch of elbow macaroni pasta bake. Portion out the cooked and cooled pasta into separate containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. You can add various proteins, vegetables, and sauces to create diverse and exciting meal prep options.

• Provides carbohydrates for energy to fuel daily activities.
• May contain fiber, especially when made from whole wheat, promoting digestive health.
• Source of B vitamins, which are essential for nerve function and energy metabolism.
• Can be part of a balanced meal when combined with lean protein and vegetables, contributing to overall nutrition.
• Often enriched with iron, important for red blood cell production and preventing iron deficiency.

Store elbow macaroni in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Properly stored, it can last for 1-2 years. Once cooked, leftover macaroni should be refrigerated promptly in an airtight container and consumed within 3-4 days to prevent spoilage. Cooked macaroni does not freeze well as it can become mushy.