Macaroni Dinner
A creamy, cheesy macaroni casserole with savory mushroom soup, pimentos, and onions, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners craving hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni, then drain and save 1 cup of the juice.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, pimento, mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of the saved juice.
- Layer the cooked macaroni in a baking dish, spread half of the mixture over it, add a layer of cheese, then repeat with remaining macaroni and mixture.
- Pour the remaining juice over the layers, top with the rest of the cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or substituting with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You can also use different types of cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be used, but ensure it's not overcooked to avoid mushiness. This dish pairs beautifully with Best Ever Cole Slaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni dinner with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Consider pairing it with Italian Cream Cake(From The Files Of Ola Dortch Williams) for a sweet finish to your meal, creating a delightful contrast to the savory main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then bake at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Dinner contains roughly 451 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% 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 assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to bake it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the dish's overall taste.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade béchamel sauce as a creamy base. For a vegan option, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
Is this macaroni dinner suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. To enhance the dish, you could add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor, making it a hearty vegetarian meal.
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).