Kid'S Famous Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish combining sharp cheddar and Velveeta, baked to perfection—perfect for kids and family dinners craving comfort food with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and pour into a large casserole dish.
- In a large saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Add the milk and heat through.
- Add the sliced Cheddar and Velveeta cheeses to the milk mixture.
- Mix until the cheeses are melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked macaroni in the casserole dish.
- Mix until all the noodles are coated with the cheese sauce.
- Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you're out of Velveeta, cream cheese or a processed cheese spread can work as a substitute. You can also spice it up with some mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. For a crunchier topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This mac and cheese is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve it as a side dish with BBQ chicken or burgers. Consider adding cooked bacon or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. For dessert, try pairing it with Peanut Butter Cheweys for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kid'S Famous Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1229 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1293mg per serving (56% 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 different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While extra-sharp Cheddar and Velveeta are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for a kick. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting with a chilled dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni and cheese recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products. However, always double-check the cheese labels to ensure they meet your dietary preferences, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
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).