Make Ahead Macaroni Frankfurter Bake
A comforting baked macaroni dish with crispy bacon, savory frankfurters, and a creamy celery and onion sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat and crumble bacon.
- Slice 3 frankfurters.
- Saute sliced frankfurters, celery, and onion in the bacon fat.
- Stir in flour, pepper, and salt.
- Add cream of celery soup and canned milk; cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring constantly.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the sauce, place in a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese, and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon and use reduced-fat cheese. You can also replace frankfurters with cooked chicken or turkey sausage for a different flavor. If you don't have cream of celery soup, use cream of mushroom or make a homemade version. Ensure your macaroni is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Herbed Baked Eggs or a slice of homemade bread. It's perfect for casual family gatherings or a hearty weeknight meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Make Ahead Macaroni Frankfurter Bake contains roughly 931 calories, with 24g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1127mg per serving (49% 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 macaroni bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for frankfurters?
You can use cooked chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even diced ham for a different flavor profile. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, try using plant-based hot dogs or omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too greasy?
To avoid greasy cheese, opt for a lower-fat cheese or mix your Cheddar with some mozzarella for a creamier texture. Make sure to not overcook the dish, as this can also lead to excess oil separation.
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).