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School Cafeteria Mac and Cheese
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Having some nostalgia for your school lunch days? Cheesy, buttery macaroni baked to perfection, topped with extra cheese and a crunchy topping.
serves/makes:
ready in:
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
2 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
1/4 cup butter
2 1/4 cups freshly grated Cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
black pepper, to taste
buttered bread crumbs or crumbled potato chips
directions
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.
Cook the pasta in boiling water for 6-8 minutes or until al dente. Drain well and return to the pan.
Add the butter to the pasta in the pan (set on the warm burner but keep the burner off).
Stir in 2 cups of the cheese, the milk, salt, and pepper and mix well. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 2-quart broiler-safe baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake at 300 degrees F for 30 minutes.
Remove the dish from the oven and turn the oven to broil.
Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese and bread crumbs or chips over the top of the pasta. Place under the broiler for 1 minute or until the topping is golden brown.
Serve hot.
recipe tips
Grate the cheese yourself for a smoother melt as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that will prevent the cheese from melting properly.
Stir the pasta mixture gently but completely.
Taste and adjust seasoning before baking, as flavors will change during cooking.
Bake until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown.
Watch closely when broiling to prevent the topping from burning.
Experiment with adding different spices like paprika or mustard powder for added flavor.
common recipe questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells as a substitute.
Is there a substitute for Cheddar cheese?
You can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
How can I make this mac and cheese creamier?
Add a bit more milk or a few tablespoons of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?
Yes, stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or diced tomatoes if desired.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake before serving. Do not add the breadcrumbs until after the mac and cheese is baked.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs for the topping?
Use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even cornflake crumbs for a crispy topping.
Can I add meat to this mac and cheese?
Yes, add cooked bacon, ham, or cubed grilled chicken if desired. You can also stir in browned ground beef for a much heartier meal.
nutrition data
404 calories, 24 grams fat, 31 grams carbohydrates, 17 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
July 3, 2020
One of the easiest mac and cheese recipes I've made for sure!
May 20, 2020
Yum
DON'T WASTE YOUR INGREDIENTS! The cheese settled to the bottom of the pan and the pasta dried out. NOT a keeper!
Sounds like you used pre-shredded cheese. Use freshly grated. The pre-shredded cheese contains starch and won't melt the same (and will sink to the bottom just as you described) which is why it's specified in the recipe.