Looking for a comforting and cheesy dish that will please the whole family? Look no further than Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This recipe, passed down through generations, is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of Velveeta cheese with the gooey goodness of cheddar and Monterey Jack. The result is a creamy, cheesy casserole with crisp edges that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
– Generational Recipe: A classic mac and cheese recipe that stands the test of time.
– Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
– Simple Ingredients: Basic pantry staples come together to create a stellar dish.
– Cheesy Goodness: A blend of Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses for the ultimate cheese lover’s dream.
Ingredient Notes
– Elbow Macaroni (16 oz): Provides the base for this classic dish.
– Velveeta Cheese (1 lb, cubed): Adds creaminess and richness to the mac and cheese.
– Milk (1 1/2 cups, divided): Used to melt the Velveeta cheese and create a smooth sauce.
– Butter or Margarine (3 Tbsp): Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
– Mild Cheddar Cheese (8 oz, shredded): Provides a classic cheesy flavor.
– Monterey Jack Cheese (8 oz, shredded): Adds another layer of cheese goodness.
– Salt (1 tsp) and Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp): Seasonings to enhance the flavors.
– Eggs (2 large, lightly beaten): Helps bind the ingredients and add richness to the dish.
How to Make Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Step 1: Heat oven to 375 degrees F.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until tender but not mushy. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
In a saucepan, melt the Velveeta cheese with 3/4 cup of milk over low heat until smooth, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter
Add butter to the cooked pasta, stirring until melted.
Step 5: Combine Cheese and Pasta
Pour the melted cheese sauce over the pasta and mix well.
Step 6: Add Remaining Cheeses and Seasonings
Stir in half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, along with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Mix in Eggs and Milk
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and remaining milk, then add to the mac and cheese mixture.
Step 8: Bake
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly, about 40 minutes.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, refrigerate the mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
– Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
– Vegetable Mix-Ins: Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for added nutrition.
– Breadcrumbs Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese topping for a crispy finish.
– Meat Lover’s Twist: Fold in cooked bacon or ham for a heartier version.
What to Serve With Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
– Garlic Roasted Asparagus: A healthy and flavorful side dish.
– Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy Caesar dressing.
– Homemade Dinner Rolls: Fresh-baked rolls to soak up every bit of cheese sauce.
– Apple Crisp for Dessert: A sweet and comforting end to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I replace the elbow macaroni with a different pasta shape?
Absolutely, you can use any pasta shape you prefer in this recipe.
How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
Consider adding hidden veggies like pureed butternut squash or carrots to the cheese sauce for a nutrient boost.
After making Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese, you can expect a creamy, rich, and indulgent dish that combines the nostalgia of childhood mac and cheese with a sophisticated twist. The crispy cheese crust on top adds a textural contrast to the creamy interior, making each bite a delightful experience for your taste buds. Serve this dish at your next family gathering or weeknight dinner for a comforting and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Momma's Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz Elbow Macaroni
- 1 lb Velveeta Cheese cubed
- 1 1/2 cups Milk divided
- 3 Tbsp Butter or Margarine
- 8 oz Mild Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 8 oz Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 2 large Eggs lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until tender. Drain well.
- Melt the Velveeta cheese with 3/4 cup of milk until smooth.
- Add butter to cooked pasta. Mix well.
- Pour cheese sauce over pasta, add cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt, and pepper. Mix.
- Beat eggs and remaining milk. Add to macaroni mixture.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with cheese. Bake for 40 minutes.