Apple Macaroni – From Swiss Alps to Your Kitchen

Apple macaroni is pasta cooked with cheese and a touch of apple flavor. Some versions are savory, like the Swiss älplermagronen with applesauce, while others are sweet, like a baked casserole with apple slices. Both taste comforting and homely.

What is Apple Macaroni?

Apple macaroni is a pasta dish that mixes tender noodles, melted cheese, and apples or applesauce for a sweet or savory twist. The Swiss version is rich and cheesy with applesauce on the side, while the American version often bakes the apples right into the macaroni.

This dish is loved in both Switzerland and home kitchens worldwide. You can make it creamy, crispy, sweet, or salty, depending on your taste.

The Swiss Alpine Classic – Älplermagronen

What Makes It Unique

Älplermagronen is a traditional Swiss dish made with short pasta (hörnli), potatoes, and Alpine cheese like Gruyère, Emmentaler, or Appenzeller. It’s often topped with caramelized onions and served with a bowl of smooth applesauce on the side.

This mix of creamy cheese, soft pasta, and sweet apple is unusual but works perfectly. The applesauce cuts the richness of the cheese.

A Bit of History

Älplermagronen originated with Swiss herdsmen in the Alps, who required hearty food that could be prepared with simple ingredients they carried. Pasta, cheese, and applesauce became the perfect combination to keep them warm and full.

Ingredients That Make Apple Macaroni Shine

You can make apple macaroni in two main ways: the savory Swiss Alpine version or the sweet baked American style.
Here’s what you’ll need for each.

Savory Swiss Apple Macaroni (Älplermagronen)

• Hörnli pasta (or short macaroni)
• Waxy potatoes, peeled and diced
• Swiss cheese mix – Gruyère, Emmentaler, Appenzeller
• Butter for the sauce
• Flour for thickening
• Milk to make the cheese sauce
• Caramelized onions (or fried onions for crunch)
• Bacon lardons (optional, for smoky flavor)
• Applesauce (Granny Smith, Golden Delicious work well)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sweet Baked Apple Macaroni (American Twist)

• Pinch of salt
• Short macaroni pasta
• Sweet apples – McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious
• Mild Swiss-style cheese (or mix of Gruyère and cheddar)
• Butter for sauce and topping
• Flour for thickening
• Milk or cream for a creamy base
• Cinnamon for warm flavor
• Breadcrumbs (for a golden crust)
• Brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

How to Make Savory Swiss Apple Macaroni

Step 1 – Boil Pasta & Potatoes Together

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add diced waxy potatoes and short pasta. Cook until both are tender.

Step 2 – Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a pan, stir in flour, and whisk in milk to make a smooth sauce. Add grated Swiss cheese and stir until creamy.

Step 3 – Assemble & Bake or Serve Stovetop

Drain the pasta and potatoes. Mix with cheese sauce in a baking dish or serve straight from the pan.

Step 4 – Applesauce on the Side

Serve a small bowl of applesauce alongside the macaroni. Spoon some on each bite for the true Swiss taste.

Sweet Baked Apple Macaroni (American Twist)

Why It Works

Baked apple macaroni mixes tender noodles, sweet apple slices, and cheese for a creamy, dessert-like dish. Cinnamon and a crunchy breadcrumb topping make it warm and cozy.

Slice apples thin and layer them with cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top, then bake until golden.

Apple Macaroni Salad Variations

Apple macaroni isn’t always hot. You can turn it into a chilled salad. Here are a few ideas:

• Tuna Apple Macaroni Salad – Creamy mayo, tuna chunks, and diced apples.
• Chicken Apple Macaroni Salad – Shredded chicken, apples, and celery.
• Korean Apple Macaroni Salad – Sweet mayo dressing with fruit and pasta.
• Old-Fashioned Apple Macaroni Salad – Simple pasta, mayo, and apple mix.
• Apple Cider Vinegar Macaroni Salad – Tangy and fresh with a little bite.

Fun Twists & Party Ideas

Mini baked apple mac and cheese cups are perfect for parties. Bake them in a muffin tin for single servings. You can also try a kid-friendly version with milder cheese or add fall spices for a holiday feel.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips

Cool leftovers before storing. Keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven with foil until warm, then broil for a crisp top.

FAQs About Apple Macaroni

1. What cheese is best for apple macaroni?
Gruyère is best for flavor and melt. Emmentaler and Appenzeller also work well.

2. Can I make it without applesauce?
Yes, you can skip applesauce and serve it plain or with another side.

3. Is älplermagronen always served with potatoes?
Traditionally, yes. But you can leave them out if you prefer only pasta.

4. Which apples are best for mac and cheese?
Tart apples like Granny Smith are great for savory dishes. Sweet apples like McIntosh are better for baked versions.

5. Can I freeze apple macaroni?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

6. What’s the difference between apple macaroni and apple macaroni salad?
The hot dish is baked or cooked with cheese. The salad is cold with a mayo or vinegar dressing.

Final Thoughts

Apple macaroni is more than just pasta and cheese. From Swiss älplermagronen with applesauce to sweet baked casseroles, there’s a version for everyone. Try both styles—you might be surprised which one you love most.