Macaroni And Cheese - New Jersey Style
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish with a crispy baked top, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners, featuring sharp processed cheese and a rich sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender; drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan; blend in flour to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk and cook, stirring until thickened.
- Add salt, pepper, and shredded cheese; stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Mix the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and beaten egg.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until bubbly and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If sharp processed cheese isn't available, feel free to substitute with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking can introduce a delightful crunch. If you want a twist, try mixing in some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, serve with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It's also delicious alongside grilled meats or as a comforting side dish for gatherings. Consider serving it with Dottie's Macaroni And Cheese for a delightful comparison.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese - New Jersey Style contains roughly 1021 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1468mg per serving (64% 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 make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the dish vegetarian.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your macaroni and cheese, mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. You can also top it with crushed red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick.
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).