Best Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni with a blend of cheddar, Colby, Velveeta, and cream cheese, baked to perfection—comfort food ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large kettle of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain well and return to the pot.
- Add the evaporated milk and butter to the cooked macaroni and place over medium-low heat.
- When the butter has melted, add the grated Cheddar and Colby cheeses, a little at a time, until all cheeses have melted into a smooth sauce.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the beaten egg.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until edges are set and casserole is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance your macaroni and cheese, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. If you're out of Colby cheese, Monterey Jack is a great substitute. For a creamier texture, you can include a bit more cream cheese or sour cream. If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier dish, serve alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs. Consider offering a variety of hot sauces for guests who enjoy an extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, then heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 749 calories, with 30g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1428mg per serving (62% 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 use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar and Colby are traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Pepper Jack for different flavors. Just ensure that you maintain the overall balance for a creamy texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This macaroni and cheese is already vegetarian! To enhance it, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven for even cooking.
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).