Creole Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy Creole Macaroni and Cheese combines sharp cheddar, pimento, and Creole seasonings for a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add elbow macaroni, chopped onion, pepper, oregano, and dry mustard to the pot.
- Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer until the macaroni is tender and the water is mostly evaporated.
- Stir in evaporated milk, pimento, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cook on low for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the evaporated milk. You can substitute elbow macaroni with cavatappi or shells for a different shape. If you want to add some heat, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. This dish can also be enhanced with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creole Macaroni and Cheese as a standalone dish or pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also complements well with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. For an enhanced experience, try it alongside Sis. Dorothy Wells' Chocolate Pudding Or Pie Filling for a delightful dessert finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. Alternatively, you can place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 286 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), iron (72% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sharp Cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the melting properties to ensure a creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. However, if you're looking to make it even heartier, consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this Creole Macaroni and Cheese gluten-free, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta alternative. Additionally, ensure that the flour you use is gluten-free, or you can omit it altogether, as the dish will still turn out creamy with the evaporated milk.
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).