Claudette Macaroni
A classic creamy mac and cheese baked to perfection with sharp cheddar, offering a rich, cheesy flavor that appeals to comfort food lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, beat the eggs and add the drained macaroni.
- Cut 2 pounds of cheddar cheese into cubes and add to the dish.
- Add 2 sticks of margarine and black pepper to taste.
- Pour the evaporated milk over the mixture.
- Stir until the mixture is thick and well combined.
- Slice the remaining pound of cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne or shells. If you want a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor. To reduce calories, use low-fat cheddar cheese or margarine alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Claudette Macaroni hot, garnished with chopped parsley or additional black pepper for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an American recipes twist, serve alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Claudette Macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second increments until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melty.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Claudette Macaroni contains roughly 854 calories, with 16g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it doesn't include meat. To enhance the dish, consider adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also add great flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Claudette Macaroni ahead of time! Assemble the dish as instructed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).