Mom'S Macaroni And Cheese
Mom's Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy casserole with a crispy bread crumb topping. Rich cheddar flavor and a creamy sauce make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste that's both satisfying and easy to prepare for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine macaroni in 2 cups warm water.
- Microwave for 4 minutes on High.
- Stir the macaroni.
- Microwave for 4 minutes more.
- Stir again. Mix cornstarch with milk.
- Heat milk and cornstarch mixture with butter until butter melts; stir to prevent lumping.
- Add cheese and mustard, then stir well.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the cooked macaroni in a casserole dish.
- Bake until the cheese melts.
- Dot bread crumbs with butter.
- Brown in the oven until the butter melts and crumbs are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try substituting sharp cheddar for the regular cheddar cheese. You can also add cooked bacon or diced vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Always stir the cheese sauce continuously to avoid lumps, similar to techniques used in Melissa's Coffee Cake for smooth mixtures.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Macaroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with Twice-Filled Potatoes, providing a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a simple fruit salad like Ambrosia Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 531mg per serving (23% 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 gluten-free macaroni for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free pasta may require less or more time to cook.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and a bit of sugar for a similar umami flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce before combining it with the macaroni. Alternatively, sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture for a more subtle kick.
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).