Grandma’s Cheddar and Cheese recipe from Love with Recipes is a delightful comfort food dish that combines creamy cheese with tender macaroni, baked to golden perfection. This classic recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, especially when you’re craving something cheesy and hearty.
Ingredients
- Macaroni: 1/2 pound (about 8 ounces)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 16 ounces, shredded
- Dry Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Milk: 3 cups
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Bay Leaf: 1 leaf
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and dry mustard, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps.
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Create the Creamy Base:
- Gradually pour in the milk, stirring slowly to incorporate. Add the chopped onion and bay leaf. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the bay leaf once the sauce is infused with its flavor.
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Incorporate the Cheese:
- Stir in 3/4 of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
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Combine with Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
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Assembly and Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring gently to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 2-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 937.5
- Fat: 57.6g
- Saturated Fat: 35.6g
- Cholesterol: 175.2mg
- Sodium: 895mg
- Carbohydrates: 61.5g
- Fiber: 2.7g
- Sugar: 2.7g
- Protein: 43.5g
Tips for Success
- Cheese Selection: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for its robust flavor that stands out in this dish.
- Consistency: Ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy by whisking continuously while adding milk.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the dish while baking to achieve the desired golden-brown crust without overcooking.
This recipe for Grandma’s Cheddar and Cheese from Love with Recipes is sure to become a family favorite, combining simplicity with rich, cheesy flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it offers a comforting taste of home in every bite.
