Mary Meskauskas' Zesty Macaroni Bake
A cheesy, flavorful macaroni bake with a zesty tomato and cheese sauce, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a pan, cook the chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Stir in the tomato soup, 1/2 cup water, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese.
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, mix the sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until hot.
- Stir the mixture, then top with buttered bread crumbs and the remaining cheese.
- Bake until the cheese melts and the topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the mixture. You can also substitute the mild processed cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a sharper taste. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using plant-based cheese. Adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can elevate the dish further, similar to the flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This zesty macaroni bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider making it a part of a family-style meal with dishes like Ham, Rice And Broccoli Casserole for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, and heating in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Meskauskas' Zesty Macaroni Bake contains roughly 164 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% 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 substitute the mild processed cheese with other varieties like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. Just ensure that the cheese melts well, as this will enhance the creamy texture of the bake.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the sauce. Alternatively, you can use a spicy cheese blend or mix in some hot sauce before baking for a zesty kick.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the macaroni bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
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).