Easy Macaroni and Cheese RecipesA Soul Food Classic Why does everyone seem to love macaroni and cheese? Could it be because it’s American favorite food, or because it’s a soul food classic, or could it simply be because it taste sooooo good. Whatever the reason, this popular dish is a favorite among children and adults. And it can be served as a main course or a side dish. There are numerous variations to preparing a macaroni and cheese recipe. It can be dressed up or down depending on your serving needs. There’s baked, creamy, and old-fashioned just to name a few. And this popular comfort food can be jazzed up and served as a complete meal to include vegetables such as broccoli or green beans, or meat such as sausage, bacon, chicken, ham, turkey, or beef. But whatever you call this comfort food, macaroni and cheese still remain a popular icon among young and old alike. Macaroni and cheese is served on many southern tables all over and is often prepared as a side dish. Many associate this popular dish with their childhood. And it certainly brings wonderful memories to all of us. I remember growing up in Tennessee, my mother always served macaroni and cheese as a side dish. I loved it as a child even thought we didn’t have it often but when we did, it was certainly a treat in itself. It’s just something about the rich thick melted cheese that clings to the macaroni and the satisfying and fulfilling taste that it brings. To bring back a few childhood memories, I have included my favorite macaroni and cheese recipes for you to try. COMPANY MACARONI AND CHEESE Cook macaroni as directed on package. In greased 1-½-quart casserole, mix macaroni, mushrooms and pimento. In a 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stir in remaining ingredients until cheese melts. Stir in macaroni; if desired, top with more cheese and sprinkle parsley on top. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly. Yield: 6 servings. OLD-FASHIONED MACARONI AND CHEESE Cook macaroni as directed on package. Drain well. In a large saucepan over low heat stir in margarine, mustard, and milk. Mix well. Add eggs; then stir in cheese until melted, add sour cream and continue mixing well. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a more creamer dish, add more milk and cheese. Sprinkle top with American cheese and parsley. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and slightly brown on top. Yield: 6-8 servings. SPICY MACARONI CHEESE & SAUSAGE CASSEROLE - (A meal in itself) 1 (8 ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until tender; drain. In a large bowl combine macaroni, processed cheese, mixed vegetables, mushroom soup, mushroom soup and 1/2 of a soup can of water, red hot sauce, and sausage. Mix well. Spray dish with cooking spray. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle more cheese on top if desired; then sprinkle black pepper and parsley. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Yield: 8 to 10 servings. TIP: If too spicy, omit the red hot sauce and use mild sausage. CREAMY MACARONI AND CHEESE Cook macaroni as directed on package. Do not overcook it. Drain macaroni in strainer.Place macaroni, butter, salt, pepper, milk, sharp cheese, and 3 cups of mild cheese in casserole dish. Mix eggs in a bowl first and then stir into mixture. Cover everything with aluminum foil and cook for 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Uncover and add remaining cup of cheddar cheese across the top. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes. Yield: 6 to 8 servings. Tip: Healthier Version: The milk, cheese, and margarine in any of these recipes can be substituted for low fat, fat free, or reduced fat versions. For a creamier dish, add additional milk.
Popular Soul Food Menu Ideas for Macaroni and Cheese Barbecue Chicken Oven Fried Chicken Old-fashioned Meat Loaf Macaroni and Cheese & Sausage Casserole For more meal ideas, Visit Soul Food Meals End of Macaroni and Cheese - Click here for Homepage
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