Corny Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish with sweet corn and crunchy crackers, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings, offering a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, milk, cottage cheese, drained corn, egg product, and 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, toss crushed crackers with 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the macaroni and cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve hot or at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of skim or 2%. You can also swap the cottage cheese for ricotta for a different flavor profile. If you want to add more vegetables, try incorporating sautéed bell peppers or spinach. Ensure you drain the corn well to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish watery.
Serving Suggestions
This Corny Macaroni and Cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve as a main dish or as a hearty side to grilled meats. For a fun twist, try adding some cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, and cover to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corny Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 927 calories, with 30g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (73% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1402mg per serving (61% 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 other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses such as Gouda or Monterrey Jack for a richer flavor. You can also use a sharper cheddar for a more pronounced cheese taste. Just make sure to keep the total amount of cheese similar to avoid altering the texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Corny Macaroni and Cheese is a vegetarian recipe as it contains no meat. It's packed with protein from the cottage cheese and Egg Beaters, making it a satisfying meal option for vegetarians.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
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).