Grandma'S Macaroni Pie
Grandma's Macaroni Pie is a comforting baked dish combining creamy cheese, tender macaroni, and a hint of mustard for added flavor. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, its cheesy layers and golden crust make it a satisfying and nostalgic choice for cheese lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Divide the cooked macaroni and grated cheese into two parts.
- Layer half of the macaroni in a buttered 2-quart baking dish, then top with half of the grated cheese.
- Repeat with the second layer, finishing with the remaining cheese on top.
- Dissolve the ground dry mustard and salt in 1/4 cup of milk.
- Beat the eggs and stir in the mustard mixture and the remaining milk.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered macaroni and cheese in the dish.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked crumbled bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the layers. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, you can substitute with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different taste. To enhance creaminess, you can also mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni pie pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty tomato soup for a comforting dinner. For a delightful dessert, finish off with a slice of Famous Pumpkin Pie to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni pie in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Macaroni Pie contains roughly 613 calories, with 15g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2037mg 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 macaroni pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni pie up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients without compromising the texture.
Is it possible to freeze macaroni pie?
Yes, you can freeze macaroni pie. Make sure it's completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).