Nina'S Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a golden topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring rich cheese flavors and a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni and drain.
- Melt 1/2 stick of margarine in a pan and add milk and flour to make a medium-thick white sauce.
- Do not let the white sauce turn brown.
- Add salt and pepper, then add the grated cheese, saving some cheese for the topping.
- Let the cheese melt into the cream sauce.
- Pour the white sauce over the cooked macaroni and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbling and almost brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda. If you're out of margarine, butter or olive oil will work well too. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with the reserved cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nina's Baked Macaroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a more filling option, accompany it with cooked chicken or a side of Company Creamed Spinach. This dish is also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nina'S Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 682 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1290mg per serving (56% 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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it's cooked al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Nina's Baked Macaroni and Cheese gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Additionally, ensure that the macaroni is labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Adding vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted cauliflower can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your macaroni and cheese. Just make sure to cook them slightly before mixing them into the cheese sauce to ensure everything is heated through during baking.
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).