Nick'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with a rich sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a classic American favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain.
- In another pan, melt the margarine over low heat.
- Blend in the flour, then gradually add the milk, stirring continuously.
- Cook and stir over low heat until the sauce thickens.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
- Add the cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Divide the cooked macaroni evenly between two greased 9 x 13-inch pans.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni in both pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. To save time, you can use pre-cooked macaroni or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. For a unique flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or mustard to the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks. For an extra twist, serve it alongside Crunchy Top Sweet Potato Casserole for a comforting, hearty spread. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nick'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1251 calories, with 20g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), iron (88% of the Daily Value), and calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 977mg per serving (42% 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 cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting qualities may vary, so choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free macaroni and cheese, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch, and use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Ensure that all other ingredients, like margarine and cheese, are certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze macaroni and cheese! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until hot.
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).