Mother'S Cheese Macaroni
A comforting, creamy cheese macaroni baked to a golden top, blending sharp cheddar with silky evaporated milk—a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Combine hot macaroni with the cheese, stirring to coat.
- Add the slightly beaten egg and both cans of evaporated milk, pouring the mixture into the baking dish.
- Distribute small pats of butter over the top.
- Bake at 450°F for about 15 minutes, until set.
- Let stand a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add a cup of sour cream or cottage cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the sharp cheese with mild cheese or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted Cornish Hens With Mushroom Stuffing. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Lemon Lush Recipe for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Cheese Macaroni contains roughly 888 calories, with 12g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg 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 different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, shells, or fusilli. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose, as some may require more or less time to cook.
How can I make this macaroni and cheese spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. You can also top it with crushed red pepper flakes before baking for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the cheese you use is not made with animal rennet. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
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).