Macaroni And Cheese With Olives
Creamy macaroni and cheese with savory stuffed olives, offering a rich flavor profile perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the processed cheese in a double boiler.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add the stuffed olives, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with buttered soft bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until crumbs are lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or incorporating a dash of cream when melting the cheese. If you want a bit of a kick, try using jalapeño-stuffed olives instead of regular ones. You can also substitute the processed cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a richer flavor. Make sure to stir the mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking or burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Andrea's Corn Salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a light soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. 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 With Olives contains roughly 330 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% 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 cheese?
Yes, you can substitute processed cheese with a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a more robust flavor. Just ensure you melt them well together with the milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni and cheese with olives is a vegetarian recipe. However, always double-check your processed cheese to ensure it doesn't contain any animal rennet if you're catering to strict vegetarians.
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).