Tillamook Macaroni Au Gratin
Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to perfection with Tillamook cheddar, crispy cracker topping, ideal for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on package; drain.
- Combine condensed cream of celery soup, cream or evaporated milk, and grated Tillamook cheese; heat and stir until cheese begins to melt.
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture, blending in prepared mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Combine cracker crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle on top of the macaroni.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a dairy-free milk if you want a vegan version. To enhance the dish, try adding cooked bacon or ham for extra protein. This mac and cheese is a fantastic way to use up leftover cheese from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni au gratin pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner. For an extra touch, offer a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving to brighten the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tillamook Macaroni Au Gratin contains roughly 312 calories, with 7g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Tillamook cheese with any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack. Just ensure it melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cracker topping before baking. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking as instructed.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! Simply use gluten-free macaroni and replace the cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without compromising on taste.
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).