Elbow Macaroni And Cheese Casserole
Creamy, comforting elbow macaroni baked with a cheesy sauce and crispy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings. Rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook elbows in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- Place the cooked elbows in a buttered casserole dish.
- Melt butter in a double boiler over simmering water.
- Add flour, salt, and pepper to the melted butter and blend well.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Cut cheddar cheese into cubes and add to the sauce.
- Stir constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the elbows in the casserole.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use a mix of Cheddar and Gruyère cheese. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with shells or penne if desired. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or some chopped cooked bacon. If you're in a hurry, consider a pre-shredded cheese blend for convenience, although fresh cheese melts better.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. This dish also goes well with a light soup, making it a hearty meal. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with Bride'S Quick And Easy Coffee Cake to round out the meal.
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 (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, but cover the dish to retain moisture, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elbow Macaroni And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 405 calories, with 7g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2036mg per serving (89% 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 macaroni and cheese casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular milk with non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety to keep the flavors balanced. The cheese sauce may be slightly different in flavor, but it will still be delicious.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
Consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach to the macaroni before mixing in the cheese sauce. You can also incorporate cooked chicken or turkey for added protein. This way, you can enjoy a more balanced meal while still indulging in this comforting casserole.
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).