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Nanny’s Simple Macaroni and Cheese: A Taste of Home

Macaroni and cheese. The words alone conjure up images of cozy family dinners and the simple joy of a perfectly cheesy bite. For me, though, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a memory wrapped in a warm, golden crust. I can still picture my Nanny, her hands dusted with flour, carefully layering the noodles and cheese in her well-worn casserole dish. The aroma that filled her kitchen as it baked was pure magic, a promise of comfort and love in every spoonful. This recipe, passed down through generations, isn’t fancy, but it’s undeniably delicious—a true testament to the power of simple, home-cooked goodness.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Yield: 1 casserole
Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
2 lbs of longhorn colby cheese, sliced to about 1/8 inch slices (Colby Jack can also be used)
Milk
Salt and pepper

Equipment Needed

Large pot
Colander
Deep casserole dish
Oven

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions. For a slightly firmer texture, reduce the boiling time by a few minutes. Remember that the macaroni will continue to cook in the oven.
Once the macaroni is cooked to your desired doneness, drain it thoroughly using a colander.
While the macaroni is cooking, prepare your casserole dish. Generously grease a deep casserole dish. A cooking spray works wonderfully for this. This ensures the macaroni and cheese doesn’t stick to the sides and makes for easier serving.
Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. Place a layer of cooked macaroni in the bottom of the greased casserole dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Next, add a layer of sliced longhorn colby cheese over the macaroni, covering it completely. The thickness of the cheese slices is important. Aim for about 1/8 inch so it melts evenly and creates a luscious, cheesy sauce.
Very lightly season the cheese layer with salt and pepper. Keep in mind that the cheese itself contains salt, so a little goes a long way. You can always add more at the table if needed. Alternatively, you can skip this step entirely and allow everyone to season their own serving to taste.
Repeat these layers of macaroni and cheese until you have used all the macaroni.
Carefully pour milk over the casserole until it almost reaches the top of the dish. The milk should nearly cover the top layer of macaroni and cheese, but not quite. Be careful not to overfill it, as it may bubble over during baking.
Bake the casserole, covered, for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour in the preheated 350-degree oven. Covering the dish helps to retain moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
The macaroni and cheese is finished cooking when the milk is no longer liquid and the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top. The exact cooking time will vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set up a bit.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Cheese Selection: While the recipe calls for longhorn colby cheese, you can experiment with other cheeses. Colby Jack is a great alternative. Other good melting cheeses include cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Each cheese will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
Preventing a Dry Casserole: The key to a creamy macaroni and cheese is ensuring there’s enough milk. If you notice the casserole is drying out during baking, you can add a little more milk.
Adding Extra Flavor: For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to the milk before pouring it over the casserole.
Enhancing the Crust: For a crispier top, remove the cover during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added texture and flavor.
Ham It Up: As my Nanny often did, consider adding leftover ham chunks to the layers for a heartier meal. Other additions could include cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like broccoli or peas.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Nanny’s Simple Macaroni and Cheese hot, straight from the oven. It’s a perfect side dish or a comforting main course. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika for a pop of color.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze macaroni and cheese for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	878 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	447 g	51%
Total Fat	49.7 g	76%
Saturated Fat	30.8 g	154%
Cholesterol	143.8 mg	47%
Sodium	917.9 mg	38%
Total Carbohydrate	60.6 g	20%
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	9%
Sugars	2.1 g	N/A
Protein	45.9 g	91%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese: Use gluten-free macaroni for a gluten-free version.
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the milk for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or peas for a more nutritious meal.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda, for a more complex flavor.
Creamier Mac and Cheese: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier texture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Q: What if my macaroni and cheese is too dry?
A: If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add a little more milk during baking. You can also cover the casserole with foil to help retain moisture.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of sliced cheese?
A: While sliced cheese is preferred for its melting properties, you can use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch. Just be sure to use a good quality cheese that melts well.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni and cheese from sticking to the dish?
A: Generously grease the casserole dish before adding the macaroni and cheese. You can also use parchment paper to line the bottom of the dish.

Q: Can I add breadcrumbs to the top of the macaroni and cheese?
A: Yes, adding breadcrumbs to the top of the macaroni and cheese will create a crispy topping. Simply sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole before baking.

Final Thoughts

Nanny’s Simple Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a dish, a taste of home, and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the comfort and joy it brings. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, additions, and variations to create your own unique version. And don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends! Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Nanny’s Simple Macaroni and Cheese Recipe