Cheddar Mushroom Macaroni
Creamy cheddar and mushroom macaroni combines rich cheese, savory mushrooms, and a hint of onion, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix shredded Cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, drained mushrooms, chopped onion, and drained diced pimentos; mix well.
- Stir in hot cooked elbow macaroni and minced garlic (if desired).
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you want to add some greens, spinach or broccoli can be excellent additions. For a bit of heat, try incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh Vegetable Fruit Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheddar Mushroom Macaroni makes a hearty main dish, but you can also serve it as a side with grilled chicken or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, pair it with Blue Cheese Deviled Eggs as an appetizer. It's a great dish for meal prep, offering comfort and convenience throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Mushroom Macaroni contains roughly 1566 calories, with 18g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1611mg per serving (70% 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?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly with different cheeses.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can lighten the recipe by using low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and flavor. Opting for whole grain elbow macaroni can also increase the fiber content.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just transfer it to a greased baking dish and bake as instructed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
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).