Extra Special Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy and cheesy with a crispy cracker topping, this comforting macaroni dish is perfect for family dinners, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, pimentos, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, grated cheese, mayonnaise, and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Crush Ritz crackers and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Place pats of butter on top of the cracker layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream. If you want to lighten the dish, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the cheese with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Adding cooked chicken or bacon can elevate the dish further, making it more substantial.
Serving Suggestions
This Extra Special Macaroni and Cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside crispy fried chicken or BBQ ribs. It also makes a great side dish at potlucks or family gatherings, complementing hearty main courses.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra Special Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 865 calories, with 7g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 852mg per serving (37% 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! Feel free to mix different cheeses to suit your taste. Popular options include gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains the same for the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this macaroni and cheese gluten-free, substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and Ritz crackers are also gluten-free, as many brands offer suitable alternatives that maintain the flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).