Diane Thibault'S Macaroni & Cheese
Creamy and cheesy macaroni baked to perfection, featuring sharp American cheese and optional onion for added flavor—ideal comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter; blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk; cook and stir until thick and bubbly.
- Add chopped onion if desired and cheese; stir until melted.
- Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Turn into a 1-1/2 quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 55-60 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding mustard powder or garlic powder to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. For a twist, try using different cheese varieties like cheddar or gouda. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cheese can save you a step but may not melt as smoothly. This dish can also be customized with your favorite add-ins like cooked bacon or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, try adding breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture. This dish also makes a great base for add-ins like cooked broccoli or chicken, allowing you to create a more filling main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diane Thibault'S Macaroni & Cheese contains roughly 89 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1347mg per serving (59% 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 sharp process American cheese is traditional for its melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture and creaminess of the final dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this macaroni and cheese gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Ensure that the elbow macaroni is also gluten-free, which is widely available in most grocery stores. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish without gluten.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).