Meff'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with sharp and mild cheeses, rich milk, and a buttery finish, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add macaroni to boiling water and cook for two to three minutes.
- Drain and rinse the macaroni in cold water.
- Finely cut the Cracker Barrel extra sharp cheese and combine it with a mild cheese like Monterey Jack.
- Mix the cold macaroni into the cheese mixture.
- Add enough scalding milk to cover the macaroni and cheese, approximately a little more than half a gallon.
- Melt the margarine in the milk along with salt.
- Pour the milk, margarine, and cheese mixture over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake in an oven at 250°F for three hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half-and-half for the scalding milk. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding Gruyère or Fontina for extra depth of flavor. If you're in a rush, pre-cooked macaroni can save time, but make sure it’s al dente to avoid mushiness. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Meff's Macaroni and Cheese as a hearty main dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. It pairs beautifully with Saleen'S Christmas Punch for a festive touch. For a more indulgent meal, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Adding a splash of milk can help revive the creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meff'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 367 calories, with 15g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1184mg per serving (51% 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 pasta for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as cavatappi or shells, which hold cheese sauce well. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the shape and size of the pasta used.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses cheese and no meat. Just ensure all cheese varieties are made without animal rennet. You can also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
How can I make this macaroni and cheese spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. Additionally, using pepper jack cheese in place of some of the mild cheese can enhance the spiciness while still keeping the creamy texture.
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).