Cheezy Cheese And Macaroni
Cheezy Cheese And Macaroni is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish featuring tender elbow macaroni coated in rich Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheeses, topped with bread crumbs for a crispy finish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a hearty, satisfying flavor everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cool, then drain again.
- In a saucepan, place cut-up chunks of Velveeta cheese, butter, milk, and flour.
- Heat the mixture slowly, stirring until the cheese and flour are dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add all but 1/2 cup of the grated Cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of cream or substituting some milk with sour cream. You can also mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using aged Cheddar cheese. Make sure to stir continuously while warming the cheese sauce to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheezy Cheese And Macaroni alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner. Consider topping with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
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 until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheezy Cheese And Macaroni contains roughly 896 calories, with 25g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1065mg per serving (46% 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 different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta and Cheddar are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique taste. Just ensure you have at least some melting cheese for the best texture.
How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your elbow macaroni is labeled gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious meal without gluten.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up until the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
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).