Two-Cheese Macaroni
Creamy two-cheese macaroni combines tender pasta with sharp Cheddar and cottage cheese, baked to perfection. A comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 12-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 2 quarts of water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well.
- While the pasta cooks, shred the Cheddar cheese.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded Cheddar, egg, cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Optional: sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier macaroni, consider using a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda with the sharp Cheddar. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist. Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. If you're looking for a lighter version, explore vegetarian recipes that feature similar ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Two-Cheese Macaroni as a comforting main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this creamy dish. For a special treat, complement your meal with dessert options like Queenie's Egg Custard Pie for a satisfying finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Two-Cheese Macaroni contains roughly 408 calories, with 16g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1716mg per serving (75% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni mix a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese for a similar texture or even cream cheese for a richer flavor. Just be mindful of the amount, as cream cheese is denser than cottage cheese.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated through.
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).