Beyond Simple Macaroni Bake
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
A classic comfort dish with only three ingredients—this Beyond Simple Macaroni Bake is the ultimate easy meal when you need something quick and satisfying. With a blend of elbow macaroni and cheddar cheese, it’s a rich and creamy dish that will have everyone asking for more. Want to elevate this simple dish? You can add frozen peas for a veggie boost, top with crunchy croutons for extra texture, or increase the cheesy goodness with more cheese. This recipe is versatile, quick, and perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 3 cups |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 3/4 cups |
| Condensed soup (such as cream of mushroom) | 1 can (approx. 10.5 oz) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 551.7 kcal |
| Fat | 21.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 51.9 mg |
| Sodium | 768.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 64.2 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | 2.7 g |
| Protein | 23.7 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the baking dish: Begin by placing the can of condensed soup into an 8-cup baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the bottom of the dish.
-
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (about 200°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you continue with the rest of the preparation.
-
Bake the soup base: Once the oven is preheated, place the baking dish with the soup into the oven, uncovered. Let it bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the soup starts to bubble up around the edges.
-
Add the cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and immediately stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the hot soup. Stir until the cheese is almost melted and the mixture becomes creamy.
-
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheesy soup mixture, stirring until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If you like, you can mix in additional ingredients like frozen peas at this point.
-
Finish baking: Cover the baking dish and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the cheesy, creamy sauce.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once the Beyond Simple Macaroni Bake is hot and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Customization:
- For added flavor and crunch, top the bake with crushed croutons before baking.
- Want a little extra cheesiness? Feel free to add more cheddar cheese—or try a different variety like mozzarella for a different texture.
- Mix in some veggies such as frozen peas, corn, or spinach for a more wholesome dish.
This simple, no-fuss macaroni bake is perfect for a last-minute dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a quick weeknight meal, or even a cozy lunch, it’s bound to become a family favorite!
