Oven Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy oven-baked macaroni with melted cheese and a hint of onion offers comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine all ingredients.
- Cook, covered, for ten minutes or until macaroni is just about tender, stirring occasionally.
- Let stand, covered, 3 to 5 minutes, to finish cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese, such as sharp cheddar or mozzarella, before baking. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. This dish is versatile and can be customized with vegetables like broccoli or peas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or steamed vegetables. It pairs beautifully with the comforting flavors of Cheese Triangles or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider adding cooked bacon or breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the dish creamy and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 610 calories, with 10g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for macaroni, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked to your liking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this macaroni and cheese gluten-free, simply substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the condensed cheese soup you use is labeled gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious, creamy dish without gluten.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Simply combine all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it, and refrigerate before baking. When you're ready to serve, you may need to increase the initial cooking time by a few minutes to ensure the pasta is fully cooked.
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).