Susan'S Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese with a mild onion flavor and crispy bread topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni as label directs and drain.
- In a saucepan, sauté minced onion in margarine or butter until translucent.
- Stir in flour, salt, dry mustard, and ground white pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded process cheese food, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle fresh bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese. If you don't have process cheese food, sharp cheddar is a great substitute. You can also amp up the flavor by adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms. For a crunchier topping, mix in some grated Parmesan with the fresh bread crumbs. This dish is a classic among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Susan's Macaroni and Cheese alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Country Lemon Loaf for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a more filling dish, consider adding grilled chicken or a side of garlic bread. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susan'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 714 calories, with 33g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 macaroni and cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This way, it will cook evenly and be just as delicious.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, any short pasta works well, such as shells, fusilli, or penne. The key is to choose a pasta shape that will hold the cheese sauce well. Gluten-free pasta can also be used for a gluten-free version of this comforting dish.
Can I add vegetables to this macaroni and cheese?
Absolutely! Incorporating cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just ensure they are cooked and added before mixing in the cheese sauce, providing a delicious and colorful twist.
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).