Macaroni And Cheddar Bake
A hearty baked macaroni and cheddar dish with ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese—perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Combine the cooked beef and onion with cream of mushroom soup, milk, and the cooked macaroni and cheddar.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding garlic powder to the mix. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, a homemade white sauce can be a great substitute. You can also try adding vegetables like peas or broccoli for a nutritious twist. Remember to stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni and Cheddar Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of coleslaw. It's perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheddar Bake contains roughly 718 calories, with 21g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like elbow, penne, or even shells. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, so it doesn't become too soft before baking.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when combining your ingredients. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for added flavor. This will give your Macaroni and Cheddar Bake a nice kick!
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust the seasoning to ensure it is well-balanced.
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).