Bethany'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with rich cheddar flavor, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings. A classic, hearty comfort food everyone loves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter; blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk; cook and stir until thick and bubbly.
- Add cheese; stir until melted.
- Mix cheese sauce with macaroni.
- Turn into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier macaroni and cheese, consider adding a splash of cream or using a combination of cheeses like Gruyère for a richer flavor. If you're out of cheddar, try a mix of mozzarella and gouda. To elevate the dish, you can incorporate cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, which also fits well with vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or can be enjoyed with Melting Apples for a delightful contrast of flavors. Consider sprinkling breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring regularly. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bethany'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 774 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1240mg per serving (54% 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 macaroni and cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for macaroni?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, shells, or rotini. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta you choose, as some shapes may require longer to cook.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour alternative for the roux. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easily adaptable.
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).