Grandma Fullers Mac And Cheese
A comforting baked mac and cheese with a rich cheesy flavor, tender macaroni, and a crispy bread crumb topping, perfect for family dinners or Lent Fridays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour hot milk over soft bread crumbs and grated Cheddar cheese; cover until cheese melts.
- Add cooked macaroni, beaten egg yolks, chopped parsley, chopped onion, salt, and melted butter; mix well.
- Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Gently fold egg whites into the cheese mixture.
- Pour into a well-greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve immediately as the dish will fall if not eaten promptly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or sour cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar with a mix of Gruyère and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be used. Ensure to mix the ingredients gently when folding in the egg whites to maintain the lightness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mac and cheese as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Chive And Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Consider garnishing with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color. For a more filling meal, serve with grilled chicken or a hearty vegetable side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This mac and cheese can also be enjoyed cold in a salad for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Fullers Mac And Cheese contains roughly 745 calories, with 31g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1089mg per serving (47% 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 mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for a day. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese can I use besides Cheddar?
You can experiment with various cheeses such as Gruyère, Fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar for a bolder flavor. Mixing different cheeses can enhance the richness and create a unique taste experience.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it doesn’t include any meat. Just ensure that the bread crumbs you use are also vegetarian-friendly, and feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
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).