Glorified Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Hearty Main Course with Meat and Vegetables

Glorified Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. This recipe elevates it from a side dish to a main course by adding meat and vegetables. It's perfect for those who love comfort food with a bit of extra flavour. The dish is easy to prepare and takes about an hour to make.

• 250 g (½ pound) macaroni
• 30 g (1 ounce) flour
• 45 g (3 tbsp) butter
• 240 ml (1 cup) milk
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 140 g (5 ounces) shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, emmental, gruyère)
• 2 hot dogs, sliced
• 140 g (5 ounces) frozen green vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale, broccoli, peas)
• 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Paprika

• Casserole or baking dish
• Saucepan
• Stovetop
• Oven

Procedure

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a casserole or baking dish.
2. On the stovetop, bring 2 litres (2 quarts) of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for 9 minutes or until al dente.
3. While the macaroni is cooking, start making the roux. Mix the flour and butter in a saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring until blended and bubbling.
4. Add the milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until thickened. Reduce heat to the lowest setting and add the cheese, sliced hot dogs, and frozen vegetables.
5. When the macaroni is done, drain it and put it in the greased dish. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir till combined.
6. Arrange the tomato slices on top. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and paprika over the tomato slices.
7. Bake for 40 minutes.

Nutritional Values

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.