Macaroni And Frank Casserole
A cheesy, hearty casserole combining macaroni, hot dogs, and vegetables in a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for quick family dinners and comfort food craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions and drain well. Set aside.
- Melt oleo in a large saucepan over low heat.
- Add chopped onion and sliced celery to the melted oleo.
- Cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add flour to the mixture and stir well.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually stir in milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add hot dog pieces, 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, prepared mustard, and pepper.
- Cook until hot and cheese is melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce mixture and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with remaining shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the hot dogs with turkey or vegetarian sausages for a healthier option. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or paprika can enhance the flavor profile. This dish can also be adapted with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, optionally garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a comforting dessert, consider following up with a slice of French Cherry Dessert to complete the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Frank Casserole contains roughly 1356 calories, with 40g protein, 201g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), iron (81% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1703mg per serving (74% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
You can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach to the mix for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and celery until tender before adding the flour.
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).