Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a hearty, flavorful dish with sharp cheddar notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions, reducing the cooking time to 3 minutes. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine or butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Top with croutons and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. This dish also pairs well with Garlic-Lemon Green Beans for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or as a delicious side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Special Occasion Mashed Potatoes for a hearty meal. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 410 calories, with 17g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (111% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1948mg per serving (85% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free elbow macaroni as a substitute for regular pasta. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the gluten-free variety, as it may differ from traditional pasta.
How can I make this macaroni and cheese dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach can increase the nutritional value while adding flavor and texture. You might also consider using lower-fat milk and cheese alternatives to cut down on calories.
Can I prepare this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through.
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).