As You Like It Macaroni
A creamy, cheesy macaroni casserole with diced sharp Cheddar and stuffed olives, baked to perfection with a hint of mustard and minced onion, ideal for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour all ingredients except the American cheese into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Place the slices of process American cheese on top of the mixture.
- Bake the casserole for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little extra milk or using half-and-half instead. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with a milder cheese if preferred. If you want a bit more flavor, try adding some garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This recipe is versatile; feel free to mix in cooked vegetables or protein for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni dish is perfect as a main course and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, serve it alongside a warm slice of Garlic Bread. You can also explore other American recipes to complement this comforting dish, such as a light dessert like Blueberry Cream Pies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven; cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of As You Like It Macaroni contains roughly 725 calories, with 16g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (59% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2860mg per serving (124% of the Daily Value).
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of stuffed olives?
If you prefer not to use stuffed olives, you can substitute with chopped green olives or even skip them altogether for a milder flavor. For an added twist, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach for more depth.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the macaroni casserole. Ensure it is completely cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).