Beth Tartan'S Macaroni And Lots Of Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish featuring sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the flour and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing to a simmer.
- Add the shredded Cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cheese can be used, but freshly shredded cheese melts better. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor, giving it a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Joanna'S Pecan Pie for dessert, offering a sweet contrast to the richness of the dish. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with garlic bread or a simple tomato soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For the best texture, you can add a splash of milk before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beth Tartan'S Macaroni And Lots Of Cheese contains roughly 1905 calories, with 48g protein, 253g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (173% of the Daily Value), iron (158% of the Daily Value), and calcium (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1348mg per serving (59% 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 and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, combine and bake for a few minutes to heat through, ensuring a deliciously creamy texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese, mascarpone or ricotta can be used as alternatives. They will provide a similar creaminess without altering the flavor drastically. Just make sure to adjust the amount slightly based on your preference for creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach can enhance the nutritional value and add color to the dish. You can mix in the vegetables during the final step of combining the cheese sauce and macaroni for an easy and delicious addition.
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).