Easy Macaroni And Cheese(Makes 4 To 6 Servings)
Creamy and cheesy macaroni baked to perfection, featuring a flavorful blend of cheese, mustard, and tender elbow pasta, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut 10 slices of cheese food into pieces.
- In a saucepan, melt margarine; stir in flour, chicken flavor, and dry mustard.
- Gradually add Borden milk; cook and stir until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat. Add cheese food pieces; stir until melted.
- Add cooked elbow macaroni.
- Turn mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
- Top with remaining cheese food slices.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier macaroni and cheese, consider using a combination of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella instead of just cheese food. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. To make it even more filling, you can mix in cooked chicken or veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this easy macaroni and cheese as a main dish or a comforting side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider adding breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch. This dish complements well with chicken recipes like Broiler Chicken Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This dish can also be frozen for later use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Macaroni And Cheese(Makes 4 To 6 Servings) contains roughly 13 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses cheese food, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites. Just adjust the quantity based on the cheese's meltability and flavor intensity to achieve your desired taste and texture.
Is it possible to make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of my macaroni and cheese?
To elevate the flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even steamed broccoli. You can also sprinkle some paprika or garlic powder into the cheese sauce for a flavor boost. For a unique variation, try incorporating some spices from your favorite chicken recipes.
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).