Go Back
apple macaroni
Elle

Apple Macaroni (Sweet and Savory Baked Macaroni and Cheese)

Apple Macaroni is a comforting and inventive twist on classic macaroni and cheese, blending sweet and savory notes in one hearty dish. This recipe features tender elbow pasta, crisp apples, and a creamy cheese sauce with hints of cider and nutmeg.
Baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it is ideal for fall and winter meals. Whether served as a main course or an elevated side, Apple Macaroni offers depth, balance, and seasonal charm.
Optional additions like bacon, caramelized onions, or sausage allow for creative variations. It is easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and sure to please a crowd.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 0 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Course: Casseroles, Comfort Food, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: alpine, American, Asian Fusion, European, swiss
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz 225g elbow macaroni or ziti
  • 2 medium apples Granny Smith or Red Delicious, peeled and diced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
  • 1/4 cup hard apple cider optional
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar grated
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese grated
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled (optional)
  • 1/2 cup caramelized onions optional
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp melted butter for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Colander (for draining pasta)
  • Cutting board and knife (for apples, onions, etc.)
  • Medium Saucepan (for making cheese sauce)
  • Whisk (for stirring roux and sauce)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing)
  • Large mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)
  • 9x9-inch baking dish (for oven baking)
  • Oven (preheated to 375°F / 190°C)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small skillet (if using bacon or caramelized onions)
  • Aluminum foil (for covering dish, optional)
  • Broiler (optional, for final topping crisp)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Toss diced apples with lemon juice and set aside.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to form a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Slowly whisk in milk (and cider, if using). Simmer until thickened.
  6. Stir in grated cheeses, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until melted and smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, apples, cheese sauce, and optional bacon/onions. Mix gently.
  8. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with panko mixed with melted butter.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with arugula salad or apple compote.

Notes

Use Granny Smith apples for a tangy contrast or Red Delicious for a sweeter bite.
Can be prepared a day in advance and baked before serving.
Gluten-free flour and pasta can be substituted.