Macaroni Cheese With Dried Beef
Creamy macaroni and dried beef combine in this hearty baked dish, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich cheese and savory dried beef flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until tender and drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add evaporated milk, stirring constantly over low heat until thickened.
- Add shredded or sliced cheese to the sauce and stir until it begins to melt.
- Scald dried beef and add it to the cheese sauce.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the evaporated milk. You can also substitute the dried beef with cooked bacon or ham for a different flavor profile. Experiment with cheeses; sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, while mozzarella provides a stringy texture. If you're short on time, try using pre-cooked macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light soup for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for added crunch. Browse more American recipes to complete your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Cheese With Dried Beef contains roughly 890 calories, with 20g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1932mg per serving (84% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese in advance, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for macaroni and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for macaroni and cheese due to its rich flavor and excellent melting properties. You can also mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth and creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just stir them into the cheese sauce before combining with the macaroni.
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).