Microwave Macaroni Cheese Deluxe
A creamy, cheesy microwave macaroni dish with a rich onion flavor, perfect for quick comfort food that appeals to families and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the macaroni in a large bowl with hot water and salt.
- Cook in the microwave for 15 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.
- Drain and rinse the macaroni.
- Melt the butter in a bowl for 1 minute, then add the chopped onion and cook in the microwave for 6 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to absorb the butter, then gradually mix in the milk.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese and cook in the microwave for 5 minutes, stirring twice.
- Add the cooked macaroni, season lightly, and return to the microwave for 4 minutes, stirring 4 times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the milk with cream. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce. Stirring the macaroni during cooking ensures even cooking and prevents it from sticking together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Microwave Macaroni Cheese Deluxe with a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheese And Carrot Sandwiches for a delightful lunch. For an extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs and broil briefly before serving, or add some cooked bacon or vegetables for variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of milk while reheating to restore creaminess if the macaroni has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Macaroni Cheese Deluxe contains roughly 1578 calories, with 39g protein, 275g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (90% of the Daily Value), protein (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2347mg per serving (102% 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 recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend. The cooking method remains the same, ensuring you still enjoy a delicious dish without gluten.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat macaroni, reducing the amount of butter, or using low-fat milk. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it separately from the macaroni. When ready to eat, combine and heat in the microwave. This makes for a quick meal on busy days, perfect for those who love American recipes.
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).