Macaroni Cheese Supreme
A creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish with mushrooms, bell peppers, and pimento, topped with crunchy cracker crumbs—perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions.
- While the macaroni is cooking, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, shredded cheese (reserve 1/2 cup), mayonnaise, chopped bell pepper, and chopped pimento in a bowl.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and mix it with the combined ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and crushed Cheez-Its crackers, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're out of sharp cheese, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well. To add a bit of heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Additionally, using whole wheat macaroni can boost the fiber content of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni Cheese Supreme pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a slice of meatloaf. You can also sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top for extra flavor and crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. For larger amounts, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Cheese Supreme contains roughly 810 calories, with 25g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni cheese mixture a day in advance. After combining all ingredients, cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked macaroni cheese in an airtight container for up to two months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess while reducing calories. Alternatively, you could use sour cream for a tangy flavor without sacrificing texture.
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).