Mema Weimar'S Macaroni And Cheese
Mema Weimar's Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines the creaminess of melted cheddar with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is hearty and satisfying, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to boil.
- Add macaroni and cook for about 15 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni.
- Place the macaroni in a pan and pour the can of mashed tomatoes over the top.
- Add bacon grease and grated cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; stir all together.
- Sprinkle some grated cheese and bacon bits on top.
- Bake at 350° for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. If you don't have bacon grease, butter or olive oil can be used as a substitute. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist. If you like a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese is a comforting main dish that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an added crunch, serve it alongside Bacon Bombs(Appetizer) or your favorite garlic bread. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or hearty entrees like One Pan Pork Chop And Cabbage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish covered with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mema Weimar'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 3591 calories, with 23g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 386g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (55% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% 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, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, ensuring it's cooked al dente before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I add vegetables to the macaroni and cheese?
Definitely! Adding cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just mix them in along with the cheese and tomatoes before baking for a delicious twist.
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).