Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe - Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Macaroni and cheese casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many. This creamy and cheesy dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a family gathering.

History

Macaroni and cheese casserole has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 18th century, with Thomas Jefferson being credited with introducing macaroni and cheese to America after tasting it in Europe.

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter or margarine
3.5 tbsp flour
0.75 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
2 tsp dry mustard
3 cups milk
0.5 lb (227 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz (227 g) elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
12 oz (340 g) can luncheon meat, cut into 0.25 inch strips
3 tbsp melted butter or margarine
0.5 cup seasoned fine dry bread crumbs

How to prepare

In a deep, 2.5 qt, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole, melt butter or margarine in the microwave oven for 30 seconds.
Blend in flour, salt, pepper, and dry mustard, stirring until smooth.
Gradually stir in milk until smooth.
Heat, uncovered, in the microwave oven for 10 minutes or until thickened and smooth.
Stir frequently during the last half of the cooking time.
Add shredded cheese and stir until melted.
Add cooked macaroni and luncheon meat.
Stir until well blended.
In a small, heat-resistant, non-metallic bowl, combine melted butter or margarine and bread crumbs and heat, uncovered, in the microwave oven for 3 minutes or until bread crumbs are lightly browned.
Sprinkle bread crumb mixture over macaroni mixture.
Heat, uncovered, in the microwave oven for 5 minutes or until heated through.

Variations

2.5 cups of ham, tongue, turkey, or other leftover meat can be substituted for the canned luncheon meat. Enjoy!
Add in cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
Use different types of cheese such as Gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Top with breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more flavorful dish.

- Feel free to add in other ingredients such as bacon, broccoli, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the macaroni and cheese casserole as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) until it is a light golden color to avoid a raw flour taste.

- Stir the cheese into the sauce off the heat to prevent it from becoming stringy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the macaroni and cheese casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the breadcrumb topping right before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the macaroni and cheese casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the macaroni and cheese casserole with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 20g per serving

Saturated Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 25% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy and gluten

Summary

Macaroni and cheese casserole is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in calories and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.

Summary

Macaroni and cheese casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and fragile, but the recipe itself looked like it had been written yesterday.

I had always loved macaroni and cheese, but I had never tried making it in a casserole before. The idea of combining noodles, cheese, and a creamy sauce in one dish sounded absolutely decadent. I knew I had to give it a try.

As I read through the recipe, I couldn't help but smile at the memories it brought back. I remembered my grandmother making macaroni and cheese for me when I was a little girl. She would always sneak in extra cheese, knowing how much I loved it. I could still taste the gooey, cheesy goodness that she would serve with a side of buttery garlic bread.

I decided to make the macaroni and cheese casserole for my family one Sunday afternoon. I gathered all the ingredients I would need – elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, flour, and a few spices. I set to work in the kitchen, following the recipe step by step.

As I boiled the noodles and melted the cheese into a creamy sauce, the familiar scents filled the air. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through the process, just as she had done so many times before.

When the casserole was finally ready, I pulled it out of the oven and marveled at how golden and bubbly it looked. The cheese had melted into a gooey blanket over the noodles, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

I served the macaroni and cheese casserole to my family, watching as their faces lit up with delight. The first bite brought back a flood of memories for me – of lazy Sundays spent in my grandmother's kitchen, of laughter and love shared around the dinner table.

My family gobbled up the casserole, each bite a comforting reminder of the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their recipes and traditions. As we sat together, savoring the cheesy goodness, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of our own family history.

And so, as I write this today, I think back on that moment with gratitude and nostalgia. The macaroni and cheese casserole has become a staple in our home, a dish that brings us together and connects us to the past.

I am grateful for the women who came before me, for their love of cooking and their willingness to share their recipes. And I am grateful for the simple joy of a warm, comforting meal that can bring a family closer together. The recipe for macaroni and cheese casserole may have come from a book, but the memories and traditions it holds are truly priceless.