Macaroni And Cheese With Fish Sticks
Creamy macaroni combined with melted cheese and topped with crispy fish sticks, offering a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- Cook and stir margarine, chopped onion, salt, and pepper over medium heat until onion is slightly tender.
- Blend in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in milk, and cook, stirring constantly, until smooth and bubbly.
- Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
- Place cooked macaroni in an ungreased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over macaroni and stir to combine.
- Arrange crispy fish sticks on top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, alongside the sharp American or Swiss. If you're looking for a quicker meal, you can substitute the fish sticks with pre-cooked shrimp or even try adding canned tuna for a different flavor profile. This dish also works well with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese with fish sticks alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread can also complement the creamy texture. For a fun twist, pair it with a quick shrimp dip for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover macaroni and cheese with fish sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese With Fish Sticks contains roughly 343 calories, with 6g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1451mg per serving (63% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking duration. The rest of the recipe will remain the same, ensuring you still enjoy this delicious dish.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat. Additionally, incorporating some cooked broccoli or spinach can add flavor and nutrition, making it a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this macaroni and cheese vegetarian, simply omit the fish sticks and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also explore using plant-based cheese alternatives to keep the dish creamy and satisfying.
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).