Mac And Two Cheese
Creamy and cheesy, this comforting baked macaroni dish features layers of American and sharp cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions and drain.
- Grate the American and sharp cheeses.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Layer the cooked macaroni alternately with cheeses four times or until all ingredients are used.
- Pour milk into the dish until it is three-quarters full.
- Add pats of butter to the top layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese along with the American and sharp cheeses. If you prefer a sharper taste, substitute some of the American cheese with a tangy cheddar. You can also mix in some spices like paprika or mustard powder for an extra flavor boost. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based cheeses and ensure the macaroni is egg-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mac and Two Cheese with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra indulgent touch, pair it with a slice of Effie'S Butterscotch Pound Cake for dessert. This dish also makes a great comfort food option for gatherings, so consider serving it alongside BBQ dishes or grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mac And Two Cheese contains roughly 730 calories, with 26g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (70% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi. Just ensure they have a similar cooking time to elbow macaroni so that they cook evenly with the cheese and milk mixture.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the cheese layers. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese.
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).