Macaroni Casserole with Double Cheese
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Description: Dive into a creamy, comforting dish with this Macaroni Casserole with Double Cheese, an irresistible twist on the classic mac and cheese. This version offers a rich and cheesy flavor profile, enhanced by Swiss or Cheddar cheeses, paired with Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence. The casserole is perfect on its own or can be jazzed up with the addition of peas and ham, making it a versatile and kid-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and bound to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons mustard powder
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup ham, diced (optional)
- 1 cup peas (optional)
Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/3 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and get that golden, bubbly top you’re aiming for.
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Prepare the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring 6 quarts of water to a vigorous boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Stir in the macaroni and cook until tender, which should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off any excess moisture and set the macaroni aside.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: For the sauce, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and bubbling but has not yet browned. Allow it to cool slightly before slowly whisking in 4 cups of milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
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Add Flavorings: Stir in the Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons of mustard powder. Mix in the Swiss cheese, Cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Ingredients: Pat the peas and ham dry with paper towels if using. Combine them with the well-drained macaroni in a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the macaroni and mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the macaroni mixture into a buttered 3-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, 1/3 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, and 1/2 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni casserole.
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Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbling throughout.
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Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish to set and makes it easier to scoop out. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your homemade macaroni casserole with double cheese!
This Macaroni Casserole with Double Cheese is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a surefire hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether served with a side salad or on its own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
