Cheese, Macaroni And Hot Dogs
A creamy, cheesy macaroni and hot dog casserole with flavorful American cheese and breadcrumbs, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Stir in flour and salt, cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually blend in evaporated milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until thick and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add grated Cheddar and American cheese, stir until melted.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in cooked macaroni and sliced hot dogs.
- Pour mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or more cheese. You can substitute hot dogs with cooked sausage or turkey dogs for a healthier option. If you're in a hurry, use pre-cooked macaroni. For a flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a nostalgic favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish with a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lord Charley'S Creamed Spinach for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a fun twist, consider adding some steamed broccoli or peas to the macaroni mixture before baking to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese, Macaroni And Hot Dogs contains roughly 505 calories, with 15g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value), iron (20% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1809mg per serving (79% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture and assemble it in the casserole dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack can add unique flavors. Just make sure to use a melty cheese for the best texture. Mixing different cheeses can create a delicious and rich cheese blend that enhances the overall dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).