My Mom'S Macaroni & Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with rich cheddar flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a satisfying golden crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Bring a large pot of slightly salted water to a boil.
- Add macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Drain the macaroni and place it in a 2-quart dish.
- Stir in condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk until well combined.
- Sprinkle shredded colby cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or incorporating cream cheese. You can substitute the colby cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you're pressed for time, you can use pre-cooked macaroni. Adding breadcrumbs on top can give an extra crunchy layer, enhancing the dish's texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Spring Peas And Lettuce for a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple salad or serving it alongside garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 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 My Mom'S Macaroni & Cheese contains roughly 1216 calories, with 54g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (114% of the Daily Value), protein (108% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2366mg per serving (103% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to make the dish more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even a touch of mustard for a flavor boost. You can also mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added texture and taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni and cheese is a vegetarian recipe as it contains no meat products. However, always check the labels on your cheese and soup to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
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).