Thomas Jefferson'S Macaroni And Cheese
Thomas Jefferson's Macaroni and Cheese is a rich, creamy dish featuring sharp cheddar cheese and tender macaroni, with optional ham for extra flavor. Its comforting, cheesy goodness makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, blending historic charm with classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; rinse and drain thoroughly.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour and blend well over low heat.
- Gradually stir in milk.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook for 1 minute.
- Add 1 3/4 cups of grated sharp Cheddar cheese and stir to blend.
- Add finely minced ham (if using) and the cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a well-buttered 2-quart casserole.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce. If you want a sharper flavor, feel free to mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the Cheddar. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer. Adding sautéed onions or garlic can enhance the flavor profile, similar to other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish or a side alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Layered Salad (Great For Dinner Parties) or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with pork recipes, which complement the flavors wonderfully.
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 in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave it, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, heating in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thomas Jefferson'S Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 445 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1300mg per serving (57% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese, assemble it in the casserole dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftover macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors. Just ensure they melt well to maintain that creamy texture. Experimenting with cheese combinations can lead to delightful variations!
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).