Mammy'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked with a crunchy cracker topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings, blending sharp cheddar, butter, and a rich egg-milk mixture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a 2 to 3 quart casserole dish.
- Layer with a thin layer of cooked macaroni, sliced cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Continue layering until the dish is full, about three layers.
- Mix together the milk and eggs in a bowl.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture over the layered macaroni, filling about 1/4 inch from the top.
- Melt 1/2 stick of butter and crumble saltine crackers into it, mixing well.
- Spread the cracker mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a 425°F (220°C) oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the milk is no longer runny and the crackers are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the layers. If you're out of sharp Cheddar, you can substitute with medium Cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Gruyere for added depth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to include cooked vegetables such as broccoli for a more nutritious twist. This dish also pairs wonderfully with American recipes like Scalloped Carrots With Mustard-Cheese Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Mammy's Macaroni and Cheese is a hearty dish perfect as a main course. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be a comforting side for holiday gatherings or family dinners. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with Chocolate Oatmeal Fudge for dessert to finish off the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals while covering to prevent drying out. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mammy'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 367 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1580mg per serving (69% 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 use gluten-free macaroni for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free varieties. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as they may differ from traditional pasta. The flavor and texture should remain enjoyable.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese layers. Alternatively, you can use pepper jack cheese for a flavorful kick. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
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).