Macaroni & Cheese Casserole

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.

Cooking Method: Baking, Microwave

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Main 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

3 tablespoon Butter or margarine
3 1/2 tablespoon Flour
3/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Pepper
2 teaspoon Dry mustard
3 cup Milk
1/2 pound Sharp Cheddar cheese
8 oz Elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
12 oz Luncheon meat, cut into 1/4-inch strips
3 tablespoon Melted butter or margarine
1/2 cup Seasoned fine dry bread crumbs

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

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/macaroni-cheese-casserole/