Macaroni Au Gratin
Creamy macaroni au gratin features tender pasta layered with rich cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. Perfect comfort food for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender.
- Drain thoroughly.
- Put a layer of macaroni at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Make the sauce by blending in a saucepan 3 level tablespoons of butter with an equal amount of flour.
- Add slowly 1 1/2 cups of milk and stir until the sauce boils.
- Cook for 3 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
- Add 2/3 of the cheese to the sauce and spread a layer over the macaroni in the dish.
- Repeat layers of macaroni and sauce until the dish is full, ending with a layer of sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the white sauce. You can substitute macaroni with other pasta types like penne or shells if desired. Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or a mix of cheddar for added flavor. Adding cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli can enhance the nutrition and taste, making it a great complement to dishes like Cheesy Broccoli And Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni au gratin as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, making it a satisfying option for family dinners. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of roasted asparagus, perfect for a comforting evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the macaroni au gratin covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Au Gratin contains roughly 216 calories, with 13g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2242mg per serving (97% 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 macaroni au gratin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble the layers and cover the baking dish with foil. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use any cheese that melts well. A combination of cheeses like mozzarella and Gruyère can add depth of flavor. Just ensure that the cheese is grated for even melting.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for the white sauce, and use gluten-free macaroni. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this classic dish.
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).