Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

I’ve got to admit, I was never really into mac and cheese growing up. It just wasn’t my thing. But everything changed when I tried Brenda Gantt’s macaroni and cheese recipe. Let me tell you, it’s the kind of dish that will turn any skeptic into a fan!

My husband—bless him—is obsessed with mac and cheese. I mean, the man could eat it every single day and not get tired of it. He loves all my recipes, but he had one request: a simple, southern-style mac and cheese. So, I decided to try this macaroni and cheese recipe, and now, it’s one of my favorites as quick meals among Brenda Gantt recipes!

But here’s the funny part: he used to be all about the boxed stuff. Yep, the quick, mix-it-up, powdered cheese kind of mac and cheese. “Seriously? You prefer a box over homemade?” I’d tease him. So, when I made this dish and didn’t tell him it was homemade, watching him gobble it up was pure victory. He loved it, and I couldn’t be happier to serve him a real, hearty, cheesy mac and cheese made from scratch.

This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Why Not Overcook The Macaroni?

The key to perfect macaroni and cheese is to avoid overcooking the macaroni. Since the dish will bake later, the pasta gets a second round of cooking. Overcooking the macaroni on the stovetop can lead to mushy pasta in the final dish, and nobody wants that.

What’s in Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?

1 small packer macaroni (1 cup): You’ll need one packet of macaroni. It’s the base of the dish, and its texture is perfect for holding all that delicious cheese sauce.

1 cup grated cheese (mild or regular, your choice): Cheese is the star of this recipe. You can use mild or regular cheese, depending on your preference. Grating the cheese yourself ensures it melts beautifully.

1 egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dish together, giving it that creamy, custard-like consistency.

2 tablespoons butter: A little butter goes a long way in adding richness and flavor.

1/2 teaspoon salt: A teaspoon of salt enhances the flavor of the macaroni and balances the cheese’s tanginess.

1/2 cup milk: Milk adds creaminess and helps the dish bake into that perfect, custard-like texture. Regular milk works well, but you can substitute it with evaporated milk for an even richer flavor.

Recipe Substitutions

  • Cheese: Swap mild cheese with sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack.
  • Milk: Use heavy cream instead of regular milk for an even creamier dish.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter works fine, but you can add a pinch of salt to make up for it.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.

Kitchen Appliances Needed

  • Saucepan for boiling macaroni
  • Casserole dish for baking
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Oven for baking

How to Make Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni

Start by boiling about 4 cups of water in a saucepan. Once the water is boiling, add the macaroni and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently and let it cook on low heat until the macaroni is tender but not mushy. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni using a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base

While the macaroni is cooking, take a casserole dish and grate 1 cup of cheese. Spread half of the grated cheese evenly in the bottom of the dish.

Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Cheese

Once the macaroni is drained, pour it into the casserole dish on top of the cheese layer. Add the remaining grated cheese over the macaroni. Toss everything gently to make sure the cheese is mixed well with the pasta.

Step 4: Add Butter

Slice 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and dot them evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture. This adds a rich, buttery flavor.

Step 5: Make the Egg and Milk Mixture

In a small bowl, crack the egg and whisk it with a fork until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of milk to the beaten egg and mix well.

Step 6: Pour and Cover

Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese. This will help bind the dish together and give it that creamy texture. Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep everything moist while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the covered casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the top is lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake—the dish should stay creamy and juicy, not dry.

Recipe Notes

  • Texture Matters: Don’t overboil the macaroni—it should be slightly firm when you drain it.
  • Cheese Choice: For extra cheesiness, you can mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère with the cheddar.
  • Juicy, Not Dry: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can dry out your mac and cheese.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare this macaroni and cheese ahead of time! After combining the macaroni, cheese, and egg mixture, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Recipe Variations & Additions

  • Add Protein: Mix in cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a hearty twist.
  • Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Spice It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of spice.

What to Serve?

  • Southern-Style Fried Chicken: Its crispy, golden coating perfectly complements the cheesy richness.
  • Collard Greens with Bacon: Adds a hearty, smoky balance to your plate.
  • Cornbread: A classic, sweet-savory side to round out your Southern spread.
  • Classic Coleslaw: Its fresh crunch contrasts beautifully with mac and cheese’s creaminess.
  • Southern Sweet Tea: A refreshing, slightly tangy sip to cleanse your palate.
  • Lemonade: The bright citrus pairs wonderfully with cheesy and fried flavors.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep it moist.

Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese FAQs

How can I tell if it’s done?

The mac and cheese should be golden on top, bubbling at the edges, and moist inside.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free macaroni works just as well. Just be sure not to overcook it as gluten-free pasta can become mushy faster.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! After baking, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Why is my mac and cheese dry?

Dryness happens when it’s overbaked. Be sure to follow the recommended baking time and keep it covered.

Can I make this on the stovetop only?

Yes! Skip the baking step and serve it straight from the saucepan after combining the cheese, milk, and macaroni.

How do I make it creamier?

Use a combination of heavy cream and milk for a richer texture. Adding cream cheese can also enhance creaminess.

Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

The Brenda Gantt Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food! This easy-to-follow southern classic combines perfectly cooked macaroni, creamy cheese, and a rich, buttery egg mixture baked to golden perfection. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup macaroni
  • 1 cup grated cheese (mild or regular, your choice)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk

Kitchen Appliances Needed

  • Saucepan for boiling macaroni
  • Casserole dish for baking
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Oven for baking

Instructions

    1. Start by boiling about 4 cups of water in a saucepan. Once the water is boiling, add the macaroni and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently and let it cook on low heat until the macaroni is tender but not mushy. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni using a colander and set it aside.
    2. While the macaroni is cooking, take a casserole dish and grate 1 cup of cheese. Spread half of the grated cheese evenly in the bottom of the dish.
    3. Once the macaroni is drained, pour it into the casserole dish on top of the cheese layer. Add the remaining grated cheese over the macaroni. Toss everything gently to make sure the cheese is mixed well with the pasta.
    4. Slice 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and dot them evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture. This adds a rich, buttery flavor.
    5. In a small bowl, crack the egg and whisk it with a fork until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of milk to the beaten egg and mix well.
    6. Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese. This will help bind the dish together and give it that creamy texture. Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep everything moist while baking.
    7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the covered casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the top is lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake—the dish should stay creamy and juicy, not dry.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 2-4 people
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 450Sodium: 550mgCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 14g

The nutrition information provided is an estimate based on online tools and may vary depending on the ingredients and methods you use. For precise dietary details, it’s always best to consult a nutrition professional.

Author

  • Maria

    Maria Lena is a 35-year-old professional chef based in the USA, known for her innovative approach to cooking. With years of experience in the culinary world, Maria combines traditional techniques with modern flavors, creating unique and delicious dishes. Her passion for food shines through in every recipe she develops, making her a respected figure in the culinary community. When she's not in the kitchen, Maria enjoys exploring new ingredients and experimenting with creative cooking methods, always aiming to bring something fresh and exciting to the table.

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