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 combines the velvety smoothness of Velveeta cheese with the rich flavors of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, creating a mouthwatering mac and cheese casserole that is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese
- Classic Comfort: This recipe offers a nostalgic twist on traditional mac and cheese that is both familiar and satisfying.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese creates a creamy and flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this baked macaroni and cheese is a breeze to prepare.
- Golden Crispy Edges: The golden-brown crust that forms on top of the casserole adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
Ingredient Notes
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed (1/2 inch size)
- 1 1/2 cups milk, divided
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
How to Make Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until tender but not overcooked, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the Velveeta cheese with 3/4 cup of milk over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir butter into the hot pasta until melted. Pour the melted cheese sauce over the pasta and mix well. Add half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
Step 5: Mix in Eggs
Beat the eggs with the remaining milk, then stir into the macaroni mixture.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the macaroni mixture in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, about 40 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness of Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese.
Storage Options
To store any leftover mac and cheese, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
- Additions: Customize your mac and cheese by adding crispy bacon, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy kick, or top with breadcrumbs for added texture.
What to Serve With Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese
- Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus: The freshness of asparagus complements the rich and creamy mac and cheese.
- Classic Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the cheesy dish.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Cool down with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap it for any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or cavatappi.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese or can I serve it stovetop?
Baking the dish gives it a golden crust and blends the flavors together, but you can enjoy it stovetop if preferred.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
Can I use low-fat cheese in this recipe?
While the full-fat cheeses contribute to the creamy texture, you can substitute low-fat versions for a lighter option.
Prepare to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will evoke feelings of warmth and comfort with every bite of Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese. The gooey melted cheeses combined with perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Momma's Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed 1/2 inch size
- 1 1/2 cups milk divided
- 3 tbsp butter or margarine
- 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, shredded divided
- 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded divided
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Melt Velveeta cheese with 3/4 cup of milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Stir butter into the pasta, then pour the cheese sauce over it. Mix well.
- Add half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Beat eggs with the remaining milk, then stir into the macaroni mixture.
- Spread the mixture in a greased 9x13 baking dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 40 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness of Momma's Creamy Baked Macaroni And Cheese.