Jackie'S Macaroni & Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni with a rich Parmesan flavor, baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, appealing to cheese lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni, rinse in cold water, and set aside to drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add flour, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden.
- Add milk to the saucepan and simmer, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream. If you prefer a sharper flavor, substitute half of the Parmesan with aged cheddar. Additionally, you can add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. This recipe is a great base for experimenting with different cheeses, making it versatile for your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jackie’s Macaroni & Cheese alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Lemon Lightning Cake for dessert, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet. For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked bacon or ham to the macaroni before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Macaroni & Cheese contains roughly 1265 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1929mg per serving (84% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking duration. The sauce will still work well with gluten-free options, maintaining the creamy texture you desire.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your macaroni and cheese, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce. Alternatively, you can mix in a few dashes of hot sauce before baking to customize the heat level to your preference.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).