Margaret'S Macaroni & Cheese
Margaret's Macaroni & Cheese is a rich, creamy baked dish with melted American cheese and a crispy top, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until almost done.
- Drain macaroni and rinse with cold water.
- Grease a deep, 8-inch round baking dish with one-third of the softened butter.
- Pour half of the macaroni into the dish.
- Spread two-thirds of the cheese over the macaroni.
- Dot with one-third of the butter.
- Repeat with remaining macaroni and cheese.
- Lightly beat eggs with a fork while slowly pouring half a can of evaporated milk into the mixture.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the macaroni in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining evaporated milk over the mixture until level with the macaroni.
- Dot the remaining butter over the top.
- Bake for 1.5 hours or until sides pull away from the pan and the mixture is not wet in the center.
- Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a more complex flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-shredded cheese, but be sure to adjust for added preservatives. To enhance the dish, mix in some cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or serve with a side of Spinach Souffle(Quick And Easy).
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese is a hearty dish perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a light protein for a complete dinner. For a unique dessert pairing, finish with a slice of Failproof Pound Cake for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, though the oven method will keep the texture best.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Macaroni & Cheese contains roughly 441 calories, with 9g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 795mg per serving (35% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can certainly substitute American cheese with other types such as cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and creaminess of the dish, so experiment to find your perfect blend.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but ensure that your cheese does not contain any animal rennet if you want it to be suitable for all vegetarians. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I do if the macaroni is overcooked?
If your macaroni is overcooked, try to add less liquid when mixing in the egg and milk mixture to help absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, you can bake it slightly longer to allow more of the moisture to evaporate, helping to firm up the dish.
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).