Nana Hawkin'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy and cheesy macaroni baked with a crunchy corn flakes topping, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners with bold cheddar flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, adding salt to the water.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and combine with milk and grated cheddar cheese.
- Mix the cheese mixture with the cooked macaroni.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with corn flakes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If sharp Cheddar isn't available, feel free to substitute with a milder Cheddar or a blend of cheeses. For a crunchier topping, try substituting the corn flakes with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs, which can add a different texture. Don't forget to season to taste!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting macaroni and cheese as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, add cooked broccoli or diced ham to the mac and cheese before baking. It also makes a great side dish for meat entrees, complementing flavors in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana Hawkin'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 672 calories, with 21g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1325mg per serving (58% 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 macaroni and cheese up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it well and bake it when you're ready to serve. It may take a few extra minutes to bake if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of corn flakes?
If you don't have corn flakes, you can use crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or even fried onions for a different flavor and texture. Each option adds a unique crunch to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it doesn't include any meat. Just make sure to use vegetarian cheese and check the ingredient labels on any pre-packaged items, like corn flakes, to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).