Cheese And Macaroni Casserole
Creamy macaroni casserole with cheese, mushrooms, and bell peppers, offering rich flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mushroom soup, small can of mushrooms, mayonnaise, chopped bell pepper, pimento, onion, and grated cheese.
- Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Set aside enough grated cheese to sprinkle on top before baking.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with reserved cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture. If you want a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Feel free to swap the cheese for your favorite kinds, such as cheddar or mozzarella. Adding cooked bacon or ham can also enhance the flavor. If you're looking for more inspiration, browse more American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as One Dollar Salad(Ha!), or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 367 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (146% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use mushroom soup, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. This will provide a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, use a cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cheese And Macaroni Casserole is a vegetarian dish as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the cheese and soup you choose are free from animal rennet if you're catering to strict vegetarian diets.
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).