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Mac & Cheese Stuffing Bake

Mac & Cheese Stuffing Bake

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with substituted gluten-free pasta and stuffing)

Description

Mac & Cheese Stuffing Bake is a comforting holiday casserole that combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with savory herb-seasoned stuffing. This dish boasts a perfect balance of rich cheese sauce and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping, making it a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and versatile for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Binder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Stuffing and Toppings

  • 2 cups pre-seasoned stuffing mix (breadcrumb or herb-based)
  • Additional 1/2 cup stuffing or breadcrumbs for topping
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter for topping

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or mixed fresh herbs, chopped
  • Hot sauce, for drizzling
  • Crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to finish cooking and absorb flavors in the oven.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  3. Mix in Seasonings and Egg: Stir the onion powder, garlic powder, and beaten egg into the cheese sauce. This will help bind the casserole and enhance the overall flavor.
  4. Combine with Pasta and Stuffing: Gently fold the cooked pasta and stuffing mix into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is well coated with the cheesy mixture.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining stuffing or breadcrumbs, drizzle with melted butter to promote a crunchy golden crust, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a stronger, more flavorful cheese sauce.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
  • Melting butter over the topping ensures a crispy, golden crust.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for better slicing and flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving to brighten the dish.
  • For vegetarian or gluten-free versions, substitute appropriate ingredients as needed.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, stuffing bake, holiday casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, baked mac and cheese, stuffing recipe, crowd-pleaser

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/mac-cheese-stuffing-bake/