Down-Home Macaroni & Cheese
Down-Home Macaroni & Cheese is a nostalgic, family-friendly dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful buttery crunch. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, velvety sauce made from a mix of VELVEETA and milk, ensuring every bite is packed with smooth, cheesy flavor. The topping of shredded cheddar and crushed RITZ crackers adds a contrasting crispy texture, making this casserole a comforting and satisfying option for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.This dish is not only easy to make but also highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For added flavor, consider mixing in bacon bits or your favorite veggies like broccoli or peas. Whether served as a side or a main course, this Down-Home Macaroni & Cheese is guaranteed to be a hit at any table, offering both the nostalgia of home-cooked meals and the indulgence of a creamy, cheesy treat.
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the cheese sauce.
- whisk To ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- 2-Quart Casserole Dish: For baking the macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter or margarine divided
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- ½ lb VELVEETA 8oz, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked
- ½ cup KRAFT shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 RITZ crackers crushed, about ¼ cup
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 3 to 5 minutes, or until thickened. Add the VELVEETA; cook for 3 minutes, or until melted, stirring frequently. Stir in the macaroni.
- Spoon into a 2-qt casserole sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle with cheddar. Melt the remaining butter, and toss with cracker crumbs. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Notes
SPECIAL EXTRA: Stir in ¼ cup of OSCAR MAYER real bacon bits with the cooked macaroni.
SUBSTITUTE: Substitute KRAFT Deluxe Pasteurized Process American Cheese for the VELVEETA.
Flavor Tips:
- Add a pinch of ground mustard or nutmeg to the cheese sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Mix in cooked diced ham, shredded chicken, or steamed veggies for a hearty variation.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Cooking Suggestions:
- For an even crispier topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes after baking.
Nutrition
Calories: 378kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 19gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 773mgPotassium: 366mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 524IUVitamin C: 0.05mgCalcium: 339mgIron: 1mg
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