Charlie'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with sharp Cheddar, offering a comforting and satisfying dish ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Saute together butter and flour to make a roux.
- Add milk gradually to create a medium sauce, stirring constantly.
- Melt the sharp Cheddar cheese into the sauce until smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the milk. You can substitute half of the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a more complex flavor. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cheese works, but it may not melt as smoothly. For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mac and cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side to grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Mama'S Pecan Pie for dessert or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. Consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked bacon to the mix for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlie'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 558 calories, with 16g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 673mg per serving (29% 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 dish up to the baking step, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What types of cheese can I use for macaroni and cheese?
While sharp Cheddar is classic, you can mix different cheeses for a unique flavor. Try Monterey Jack, fontina, or blue cheese for a twist. Just ensure to maintain a good melting quality.
Can I make a healthier version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber and lower-fat cheese options. Incorporating pureed vegetables, like butternut squash or cauliflower, into the cheese sauce can also add nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
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).