Macaroni Pie
Macaroni pie is a comforting baked dish that combines tender macaroni with creamy mild Cheddar cheese, resulting in a rich, cheesy flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil macaroni for 8 to 10 minutes in salted water.
- Drain the macaroni, do not rinse.
- Pour the macaroni into a mixing bowl; add cheese, beaten egg, milk, and pepper.
- Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and dot with butter.
- Bake at 450° until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash more milk or using evaporated milk instead. You can substitute the mild Cheddar with sharp Cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses. If you're looking for a twist, try mixing in cooked broccoli for added nutrients, similar to Broccoli Almond. Ensure to stir the mixture thoroughly to avoid clumps before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Macaroni pie is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve alongside Thomas Jefferson's Macaroni And Cheese Pudding. You can also top it with breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out the macaroni.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Pie contains roughly 704 calories, with 13g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2017mg per serving (88% 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 pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni pie ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate 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 can I use instead of an egg?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, and then add it to your macaroni pie mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni pie recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat. You can enhance the flavor by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or consider pairing it with vegetarian recipes like a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome 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).