Mom'S Macaroni
Creamy and cheesy macaroni baked to perfection, featuring tender elbow pasta and rich cheddar cheese, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender and drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter.
- Blend in flour and pepper.
- Mix milk into the saucepan and cook, stirring until thick and bubbly.
- Add cheddar cubes and stir until melted.
- Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Turn mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce. If you don't have cheddar, feel free to substitute with any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg. This dish can also be made with whole wheat or gluten-free elbow macaroni for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Macaroni alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Hot Cottage Potato Salad for a comforting family dinner. For a more filling option, consider adding protein such as cooked chicken or ham. This dish is perfect for potlucks or gatherings, as it can easily be doubled or halved.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Macaroni contains roughly 758 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% 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 macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni on hand, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or rotini. Each will provide a different texture but will still hold the cheese sauce well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.
Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).