Macaroni & Cheese Casserole

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Creamy baked macaroni with luncheon meat and a crunchy breadcrumb topping
Macaroni & Cheese Casserole recipe image
Macaroni & Cheese Casserole recipe image
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Macaroni & Cheese Casserole

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 426.0

Description

This comforting Macaroni & Cheese Casserole features a rich, homemade cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and a savory twist of luncheon meat. The dish is topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for added texture. It is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight cooking.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain well and set aside.
  2. Cut luncheon meat into 1/4-inch strips.
  3. In a deep, 2 1/2-quart, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole, melt 3 tablespoons of butter or margarine in the microwave for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and dry mustard until smooth and fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually stir in milk, ensuring no lumps remain.
  6. Microwave uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently during the last 5 minutes, until the sauce is thickened and smooth.
  7. Stir in the cooked macaroni and luncheon meat strips until evenly coated with the sauce.
  8. In a small, heat-resistant bowl, combine 3 tablespoons melted butter and seasoned bread crumbs.
  9. Microwave the breadcrumb mixture uncovered for 3 minutes, or until lightly browned and crisp.
  10. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni mixture.
  11. Microwave uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  12. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 426.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 28.6g44%
Saturated Fat 15.7g79%
Cholesterol 58.6mg20%
Sodium 4216.9mg176%
Total Carbohydrate 20.4g7%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 9.4g
Protein 21.9g44%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Variation: You can substitute the luncheon meat with 2 1/2 cups of diced ham, tongue, turkey, or other leftover cooked meats for a different flavor profile.

Storage: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Tip: Ensure your casserole dish is microwave-safe and non-metallic to prevent sparking and ensure even cooking.

Keywords: macaroni, cheese, casserole, cheddar, comfort food, cheesy, cream sauce, breadcrumb topping, easy dinner, family meal, microwave recipe, quick meal, homemade, savory, kid-friendly, party food
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