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Baked Macaroni Ala The Joy Of Cooking Recipe

This Baked Macaroni recipe is a perennial family favorite, perfected over years of deliciousness! Kids adore it, and leftover ham elevates it to another level of yummy. Get ready for creamy, cheesy macaroni and a comforting casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Leftovers are amazing the next day, too! This recipe uses increased ingredient amounts for a larger serving size, perfect for ensuring you have plenty of leftovers.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 664.2 kcal
Protein 70g
Rating 3.7 (3 Reviews)
Baked Macaroni Ala The Joy Of Cooking

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Macaroni Ala The Joy Of Cooking

  • Macaroni
  • Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Eggs
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Herb Stuffing Mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

How to Make Baked Macaroni Ala The Joy Of Cooking

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese and Gruyere until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in cooked macaroni, ham (if using), and half of the Parmesan cheese.
  7. Pour macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

37 g

Sugar

6g

Fat

107g

Carbs

15g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Main Dish Pasta One Dish Meal Pasta Rice And Grains Elbow Macaroni