Aunt Margie'S Macaroni Loaf
A savory baked macaroni dish featuring cheese, bread crumbs, and aromatic herbs, ideal for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a hearty, cheesy main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni with 1 teaspoon salt until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Mix 1 teaspoon pepper with bread crumbs and set aside.
- Blend egg yolks with milk until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni with the egg and milk mixture.
- Add the bread crumbs mixture to the macaroni mixture.
- Stir in grated cheese, butter, parsley, minced onion, and chopped pimento.
- Beat egg whites to soft peaks and fold into the macaroni mixture gently.
- Pour the mixture into a well buttered mold.
- Cover the mold with wax paper and secure to seal.
- Set the mold in a pan of water and steam in a 300°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or any cheese you prefer. If you want a bit more flavor, add garlic powder or your favorite herbs. Ensure the macaroni is cooked just until al dente to avoid mushiness after steaming. This dish can be served as a main course or a side, making it versatile for various meals.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni loaf is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or drizzle with a little olive oil. For a comforting dessert, consider following it with Grandmother'S Famous Cranberry Bread(Get Mother To Help) to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave slices for a quick option, but the oven helps maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Margie'S Macaroni Loaf contains roughly 305 calories, with 17g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), and potassium (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1448mg per serving (63% 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 loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni loaf a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, steam it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its flavor and melting qualities, but you can use any cheese you enjoy, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a mix. For a sharper taste, try adding some grated parmesan along with the cheddar.
Can I add vegetables to the macaroni loaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely and sauté them first to remove excess moisture before adding them to the loaf.
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).