Macaroni And Cheese From Scratch
Creamy homemade macaroni and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping, rich cheese flavor, ideal for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Place minced onion and 2 tablespoons margarine in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook until softened.
- Stir in flour, dry mustard, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly stir in milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Add about three-quarters of the grated cheese to the cooked macaroni and mix with a fork to coat.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 tablespoon margarine.
- Stir in bread crumbs until coated.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Gruyere. If you prefer a sharper taste, incorporate some aged cheddar. To save time, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but for the best melt, opt for block cheese and grate it yourself. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Macaroni and cheese makes a hearty main dish but can also be served as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. For added flavor, toss in cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas. It pairs beautifully with a light Tomato and Cucumber Salad, balancing the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can add a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese From Scratch contains roughly 1123 calories, with 24g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta cooks to al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure your cheese and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Can I make macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese in advance. Assemble the dish without baking it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).