Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese for the Microwave

Submitted by ctrmom

"When my daughter was little, she used to call this "macaroni and home-made cheese" much to the delight of her grandmother with whom the recipe originated. Grandma always used Velveeta, but we usually use cheddar. I have used whatever I have on hand. Monterey Jack is especially good. Use your favorite cheese. This recipe takes little more effort than a box, is faster than frozen, and is oh so much better than both. Everyone will think you cooked all day."

 

• Ready In: 20mins
• Ingredients: 8
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni, raw (8 ounces)
• 2 cups hot water
• 1⁄3 cup butter or 1/3 cup margarine
• 3⁄4 teaspoon onion salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1⁄4 cups milk
• 8 ounces cheese, cut into cubes
• 1⁄3 cup flour

directions

1. Mix macaroni, water, butter, onion salt, and pepper in 2-quart covered casserole; cover tightly.
2. Microwave on high 5 minutes; stir.
3. Cover tightly and microwave on medium(50% power) to boiling, 4 to 6 minutes.
4. Stir in milk, cheese, and flour.
5. Cover tightly and microwave on high (100% power) stirring every 4 minutes for 10 to 12 minutes until bubbly and tender.

Reviews

[angie_pangie]

I love this method!! It needed some tweaks to get the seasoning right, but I was using a mild cheddar which can be very bland. I'm so thankful for a faster way to make M&C that my kids will actually eat. Thanks!

 

[earth2julia]

The dish itself tasted fine. It wasn't spectacular, and it wasn't horrible. However, the microwave instructions were not accurate and the water boiled over a few times. I would suggest half the microwave time, or just make it over the stove. Also, I used swiss instead of cheddar, used real onions, and added some red pepper flakes(personal taste.)

 

[jillcdunn]

The microwave directions were fine for me. You might just watch closely since microwave times vary. As for the taste, Delicious with a capital "D". The quintessential comfort food, this tastes just like mac and cheese should. I brown mine briefly under the broiler for that homemade crusty brown goodness. My kids LOVE this (as do I) and there is never any left over. In fact I have started doubling it just so I can have a little the next day for lunch. Also super yummy with a little chopped ham stirred in. Yum-o!