Macaroni & Cheese Casserole 🧀
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Description:
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this classic Macaroni & Cheese Casserole! It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave comfort food. With its cheesy layers and perfectly seasoned macaroni, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces macaroni
- 12 ounces cheddar cheese, sliced
- 4 eggs
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
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Prepare Casserole Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Liberally butter a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
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Layer Macaroni and Cheese:
- Begin by layering the buttered casserole dish with alternating layers of macaroni and sliced cheddar cheese.
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Prepare Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs together with milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture will add richness and flavor to the casserole.
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Pour Egg Mixture Over Macaroni and Cheese:
- Once the egg mixture is ready, pour it evenly over the layers of macaroni and cheese in the casserole dish.
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Prepare Crumb Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix together cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. This will create a crunchy topping for the casserole.
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Add Crumb Topping:
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
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Garnish and Customize:
- Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor. You can also customize this dish by adding cooked bacon bits, diced vegetables, or your favorite seasonings to the macaroni and cheese layers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 802.4
- Total Fat: 45.3g
- Saturated Fat: 26.8g
- Cholesterol: 312.1mg
- Sodium: 1020.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2.2g
- Protein: 40.7g
Recipe Notes:
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Gouda, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can add depth to this dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Simply increase the baking time slightly if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Kid-Friendly Twist: Get your little ones involved in the kitchen by letting them help with layering the macaroni and cheese or sprinkling the crumb topping. It’s a fun and delicious way to bond over cooking!
This Macaroni & Cheese Casserole recipe is a timeless favorite that’s both comforting and satisfying. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy the cheesy goodness with every bite!