Marie'S Macaroni And Cheese
Marie'S Macaroni And Cheese is a comforting baked dish featuring tender pasta layered with melted, cheesy goodness and a slightly crusty top. Its rich, creamy flavor makes it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy weekend meals. A classic American favorite with a cheesy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain and return to the cooking pan.
- Add the butter or margarine; stir thoroughly.
- In a lightly buttered baking pan (either 9 x 13-inch or 9 x 9-inch), place half of the macaroni.
- Cover with 1 1/2 to 2 cups of shredded cheese.
- Add the second layer of macaroni and cheese.
- Beat the eggs with a fork or beater; add the milk, blending thoroughly.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered macaroni and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (325°F if using a glass pan) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cheese on top is slightly browned and crusty.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier macaroni and cheese, consider using a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella. If you're out of eggs, you can substitute with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika can elevate the flavor. For a crunchier topping, try adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Marie's Macaroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side. It pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato Fries for a well-rounded meal. Consider adding a fresh salad on the side, such as Tub Salad, to balance the richness of the mac and cheese. This dish also makes an excellent potluck option, sure to please a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish covered with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 979 calories, with 15g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1154mg per serving (50% 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 pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the gluten-free variety to avoid overcooking, as they often cook faster than traditional pasta. The cheese and egg mixture will still provide a deliciously creamy texture.
What type of cheese works best in this macaroni and cheese?
Cheddar is a classic choice for macaroni and cheese, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a bit of blue cheese for added flavor. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well for that creamy consistency.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the macaroni and cheese ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).