Aunt Lydia’s German-style Baked Macaroni
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Description:
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Aunt Lydia’s German-style Baked Macaroni, a cherished family favorite guaranteed to elicit smiles from both the young and the young at heart. This delightful meatless dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, making it a wholesome meal suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Prepare to be enchanted by its creamy texture, rich flavor, and irresistible appeal. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every bite!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 pound |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 pound |
| Milk | 1 1/4 cups |
| Dry mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Flour | 1/3 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick), divided |
| Margarine | 1/2 – 1 stick |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
Instructions:
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Preparation: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a buttered roasting pan, spreading it out evenly.
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 stick of butter or margarine. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
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Create the Roux: In a separate bowl, mix the flour into the cold milk, stirring until smooth and free of any lumps. Pour this milk-flour mixture into the saucepan with the sautéed onions. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and dry mustard. Cook the mixture until it is just heated through, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
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Incorporate the Cheese: Once the sauce is heated, add the sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine with Macaroni: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked elbow macaroni in the roasting pan, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious cheese mixture.
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Prepare the Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1/2 stick of butter or margarine. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the breadcrumbs, mixing until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.
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Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture in the roasting pan. Dust the top with paprika for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roasting pan in the oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with irresistible goodness.
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Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the German-style Baked Macaroni from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Dish out generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting embrace of this delectable dish with your loved ones.
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Enjoy! Delight in the creamy richness and savory goodness of Aunt Lydia’s German-style Baked Macaroni, a culinary masterpiece that is sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul with every forkful. Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal that will leave everyone at the table craving seconds. Bon appétit! 🧀🍲🥗
