Cheddar Topped Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese topped with crunchy Ritz crackers and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk hot water, cheese sauce from the pouch, and ground red or black pepper in a casserole dish.
- Stir in the dry pasta and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Cover the dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove from oven and stir in sour cream.
- Mix together 1/2 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream or using a combination of cheeses such as Monterey Jack with the Cheddar. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to increase the ground red pepper. Using whole wheat pasta can provide a healthier option while still maintaining the dish's comforting flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheddar Topped Macaroni and Cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside American recipes like Baked Ham Slice for a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms or broccoli to the mix.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Topped Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1013 calories, with 25g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (192% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers on hand, you can substitute with any buttery cracker or even crushed potato chips for a different texture. Alternatively, for a healthier option, try using panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this macaroni and cheese gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the crackers are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that will work well in this recipe.
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).