Charlotte Elliot'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with mushrooms, pimento, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping, ideal for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook the small macaroni until tender, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, grated sharp cheese, chopped onion, pimento, and mushrooms.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with crushed cheese Ritz crackers.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of some mayonnaise. If you want a bit more flavor, add garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also swap out the sharp cheese for a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a milder taste. For a vegetarian version, ensure the soup and crackers are meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak. For a comforting dessert, consider following it up with a slice of Chocolate Chip Pie(Makes 2 Pies) to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlotte Elliot'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 731 calories, with 19g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (112% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 967mg per serving (42% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend will work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the cheese used.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the small macaroni with gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and crackers are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free macaroni and cheese.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake it when you're ready to serve. This is a great time-saver for gatherings or busy weeknights.
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).