Mommom'S Macaroni And Cheese
Mommom's Macaroni and Cheese offers a creamy, cheesy comfort with a crispy breadcrumb topping. The rich sharp cheese flavor pairs perfectly with tender pasta, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its simple ingredients and hearty taste make it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt oleo over low heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Remove from heat.
- Gradually stir in canned milk until smooth.
- Stirring constantly, cook over medium heat about 10 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheese until melted.
- Turn cooked macaroni into a greased 2-quart casserole.
- Pour cheese mixture over macaroni and mix well.
- Mix remaining cheese and bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs and remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more canned milk or using half-and-half instead. You can substitute the extra sharp cheese with a mix of cheddar and Gruyère for a unique flavor twist. If you're out of oleo, butter works just as well. To add a touch of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mommom's Macaroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or a delightful side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Church Salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try adding cooked bacon or vegetables like broccoli for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mommom'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 878 calories, with 26g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1936mg per serving (84% 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 Mommom's Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is preferred for its rich flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Fontina for added creaminess. Experimenting with cheese blends can lead to delightful variations.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the cheese sauce. Ensure that the macaroni is also gluten-free, which many brands offer today.
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).