Macaroni And Cheese(Makes 2-Quart Dish)
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with sharp American cheese and a hint of onion, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on package; place in ungreased 2-quart casserole.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Remove from heat; stir in milk.
- Heat, stirring constantly, until sauce boils.
- Boil for 1 minute.
- Stir in grated onion and shredded cheese; heat until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Pour sauce over cooked macaroni; dot with 1 tablespoon butter.
- Cover and bake in a 375°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère instead of just American cheese. If you want to add some flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of mustard powder or hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also substitute half of the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Macaroni and cheese can be served as a comforting main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a classic meatloaf. You can also complement it with a slice of garlic bread to soak up any leftover cheese sauce.
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, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or 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(Makes 2-Quart Dish) contains roughly 124 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2042mg per serving (89% 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 different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, ensuring it's al dente before combining with the cheese sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This macaroni and cheese recipe is already vegetarian as it does not contain meat. However, to enhance flavors, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese sauce. You can also explore using plant-based cheese alternatives if you prefer a vegan version.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven, 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).