Rich Macaroni-N-Cheese
Creamy and cheesy macaroni baked to perfection, featuring Velveeta and Cheddar with a spicy hot sauce kick, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan; add flour and cook on low for 3 minutes.
- Gradually add warm milk while whisking, then cook until just boiling.
- Simmer for 2 minutes, then add pepper and hot sauce.
- Stir in cream and simmer for 1 minute.
- Add 3/4 of the shredded Velveeta and Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
- Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add some extra flavor, mix in some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli. For a crunchier topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking. You can also substitute the Cheddar with a sharp variety for a bolder taste.
Serving Suggestions
This rich macaroni-n-cheese pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an added crunch, serve alongside Lipton Toasty Onion Sticks. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be the star of the show.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Cover with foil if using the oven to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rich Macaroni-N-Cheese contains roughly 517 calories, with 16g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 799mg per serving (35% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, 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.
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).