My Favorite Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese with a rich cheesy flavor, topped with crunchy cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until tender, then drain.
- Put the cooked macaroni in a buttered baking dish.
- Mix the can of mushroom soup with milk and cubed Cheddar cheese; pour over the macaroni.
- Cover with crushed cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F until hot and brown, about 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier mac and cheese, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritional boost. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try incorporating spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika. Substituting the Cheddar with a mix of cheeses like Gruyère and Monterey Jack can enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a side of Grilled Vegetable Medley for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, like Myrtle Duncan'S Buttermilk Salad, to add some crunch and acidity. It also makes a great comfort food option at potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 489 calories, with 17g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 755mg per serving (33% 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 dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid a cold center.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup as alternatives. For a homemade version, mix equal parts of heavy cream and chicken broth with sautéed mushrooms for a similar flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni and cheese recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain meat. However, be sure to check the ingredients in the mushroom soup, as some brands may include meat-based stock. Opt for a vegetarian version to keep it compliant.
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).