Mccray Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish with a crispy top, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners, featuring sharp cheese and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer cooked macaroni and sliced extra sharp cheese in a 4-quart round casserole dish, starting with macaroni and ending with cheese.
- Pour milk over the layered ingredients until just visible.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese on top is brown.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese layers. If you prefer a slightly crunchy topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking. Feel free to substitute the extra sharp cheese with your favorite cheese, such as mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mccray Macaroni and Cheese alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a hearty soup. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with a side of Lemon Scones to complement the rich flavors of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mccray Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 766 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1507mg per serving (66% 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 and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling everything up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Extra sharp cheese provides a strong flavor, but you can experiment with other types like gouda or pepper jack for a twist. Combining different cheeses can enhance the taste and texture, so feel free to get creative with your favorites.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free macaroni in place of regular pasta. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free options that maintain a similar texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without the gluten.
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).