Contents
Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole
What if we told you that a creative twist on a classic comfort food could elevate a simple dinner into an impressive meal? The Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole not only satisfies your cheese cravings but also packs a punch with bold flavors and textures. Read on to discover how this comforting dish can become your go-to recipe, whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients List
For this Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni: Classic pasta for that traditional macaroni texture.
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For a robust cheese flavor; feel free to substitute with a mix of mozzarella or Gouda for a twist.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk adds creaminess but you can swap for almond milk or skim milk for a lighter option.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds richness without overwhelming flavors; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: For that smoky, crunchy element; turkey bacon or veggie crumbles work too!
- 1 cup steamed broccoli: For a pop of color and nutrition; other veggies like spinach or cauliflower could also be included.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances overall flavor; fresh minced garlic will give a stronger bite.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This rounds out the flavor profile; shallots are a good substitute.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: For the crispy topping; cornflake crumbs can be a gluten-free option.
Timing
Preparing this Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole takes approximately 90 minutes, which is about 20% less time than the average baked pasta dish! Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even cook throughout the casserole.
2. Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, crumbled bacon, and steamed broccoli. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Top with breadcrumbs, ensuring they cover the entire surface for a crunchy texture.
6. Bake
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to portion out.
Nutritional Information
This Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole serves approximately 8 people, with each serving containing:
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
These figures can vary by ingredient choices (like low-fat cheese or alternative dairy), so adjust according to your dietary needs.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you want a lighter version of this comfort food classic, consider these swaps:
- Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
- Switch to reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt for the sour cream to cut calories.
- Add in extra veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutritional benefits and flavor depth.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole experience, serve with:
- A side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp on top for a protein boost.
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook it al dente, as it will soften further in the oven.
- Skipping the Cheese Sauce: Just mixing cheese with the pasta won’t yield the same creamy result—make sure to prepare your sauce properly.
- Not Letting It Cool: Cutting into the casserole too soon can lead to a mess; waiting a few minutes will help it set.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
For any leftovers or meal prep:
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven for best results or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Conclusion
In just 90 minutes, you can create a Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole that delights both the eyes and the palate. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your preference; just ensure one is a meltable variety.
What can I do if it’s too dry?
If you find the casserole is too dry after baking, drizzle some milk over the top before serving, or add more cheese sauce.
This Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole is versatile, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for any occasion!
Loaded Mac & Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni Classic pasta for that traditional macaroni texture.
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese For a robust cheese flavor; feel free to substitute with a mix of mozzarella or Gouda for a twist.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk adds creaminess but you can swap for almond milk or skim milk for a lighter option.
- 1 cup sour cream Adds richness without overwhelming flavors; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled For that smoky, crunchy element; turkey bacon or veggie crumbles work too!
- 1 cup steamed broccoli For a pop of color and nutrition; other veggies like spinach or cauliflower could also be included.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances overall flavor; fresh minced garlic will give a stronger bite.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder This rounds out the flavor profile; shallots are a good substitute.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For the crispy topping; cornflake crumbs can be a gluten-free option.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, crumbled bacon, and steamed broccoli. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Top with breadcrumbs.
- Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest