Dottie'S Macaroni And Cheese
A comforting baked macaroni and cheese with a creamy, cheesy filling topped with paprika, perfect for family dinners and satisfying all cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni until done.
- Drain the water off the macaroni.
- Mix the macaroni with the stick of oleo until melted.
- Pour the macaroni into a baking dish.
- Mix the beaten eggs, milk, and grated cheese together.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle paprika on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the cheese mixture. You can substitute any cheese you prefer, like cheddar or mozzarella, depending on your taste. If you want to add some flavor, mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. This dish can be easily adapted to fit vegetarian recipes by including additional veggies.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a savory meatloaf. It also makes a great side dish for gatherings, complementing favorites like T.K.'S Broccoli Bread. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra paprika on top before serving for a pop of color.
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 warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dottie'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 605 calories, with 19g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1226mg per serving (53% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going into the oven cold.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is a classic choice for macaroni and cheese due to its great melting properties and sharp flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors and textures. Mixing several types can also enhance the dish.
Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze macaroni and cheese. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
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).