American Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni combined with crispy bacon and flavorful seasonings, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 3 tablespoons flour ⓘ
- 1 cup milk ⓘ
- 1 cup water ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon chicken instant bouillon granules ⓘ
- dash hot pepper sauce ⓘ
- 12 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons minced chives
- 1 tablespoon diced pimento ⓘ
- 1/4 cup saltine cracker crumbs ⓘ
Instructions
- Fry bacon until lightly browned over medium heat; drain and set aside.
- In 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings, sauté celery for about 3 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
- Add flour to the celery and cook for about 1 minute.
- Stir in milk, water, bouillon granules, and hot pepper sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Remove from heat.
- Stir in cooked and drained elbow macaroni, minced chives, diced pimento, and all but 1/4 cup of crumbled bacon.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with cracker crumbs and the reserved 1/4 cup of bacon.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack alongside the Cheddar. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options for dietary preferences. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk or cream after baking.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or baked salmon. It also makes a satisfying side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or use a microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of American Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 258 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for added flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve the creamy consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon. You can also enhance the flavor with sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added depth.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).