Glorified Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with a savory blend of cheeses, soups, and pimentos, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and pimento in 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; do not brown.
- Add the sauteed onion, remaining mayonnaise, pimento, soups, and cheese to the cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with grated cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the cheese mixture. If you want to reduce the richness, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also use rotini or shells instead of elbow macaroni for a fun twist. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This glorified macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be served as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs. For a comforting dessert, consider following up with a slice of Quick Custard Pie or Grandma'S Best Sugar Cookies to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glorified Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 541 calories, with 19g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2031mg per serving (88% 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 ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cream of chicken soup or a homemade béchamel sauce. For a vegetarian option, use cream of broccoli or a vegetable cream soup to maintain a similar texture.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also add a nice touch. Mixing in cooked bacon or sausage can also elevate the dish for meat lovers.
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).