Macaroni and Cheese USDA Recipe for Adults in CACFP

Age Group: Adult
Serving Size: 25-50
Macaroni and Cheese is a childhood favorite, a satisfying combination of cheese and noodles. Our version is made even more special with cauliflower!
CACFP Adult Portion Crediting Information
1 piece (2” x 3¾”) provides 1 oz equivalent meat alternate and 1 oz equivalent grains.
2.34 from 3 votes

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Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven:
    Conventional oven: 350 °F.
    Convection oven: 325 °F.
  • Heat water to a rolling boil.
  • Add cauliflower. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes until tender. Place cauliflower in a food processor. Puree on high speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute until cauliflower has a smooth consistency.
    DO NOT OVERMIX.
    Set aside for step 8.
  • Heat water to a rolling boil.
  • Slowly add macaroni. Stir constantly until water boils again. Cook about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally. DO NOT OVERCOOK. Drain well. Set aside for step 9.
  • Heat oil in skillet.
  • To make a roux, add flour and brown lightly for 2 minutes. Stir constantly.
  • Slowly add milk and water whisk until smooth.
  • Combine macaroni 7 lb 6 oz (2 gal) with cauliflower puree, onion, milk, cheese, egg whites, sour cream, pepper, garlic powder, onion flakes, salt, and lemon pepper in a large bowl.
  • Add 1 qt 2 cups (4 lb) roux and toss well.
  • Lightly coat a steam table pan (12” x 20” x 2½”) with pan release spray. Pour about 16½ lb (1 gal 3½ qt) macaroni and cheese mixture into steam table pan.
    For 25 servings, use 1 pan.
    For 50 servings, use 2 pans.
  • Bake until firm:
    Conventional oven: 350 °F for 40-45 minutes.
    Convection oven: 325 °F for 30-40 minutes.
  • Critical Control Point: Heat to 165 °F or higher for at least 15 seconds.
  • Critical Control Point: Hold for hot service at 140 °F or higher.
  • Portion:
    Cut each pan 5 x 5 (25 pieces per pan).
  • Serve 1 piece (2” x 3¾” square).

Nutrition INFORMATION

Macaroni and Cheese USDA Recipe for Adults in CACFP
Amount Per Serving
 
1 piece (2” x 3¾” square).
Calories
345
Total Fat
 
8
g
12
%
Saturated Fat
 
3
g
19
%
Cholesterol
 
18
mg
6
%
Sodium
 
469
mg
20
%
Total Carbohydrate
 
47
g
16
%
Dietary Fiber
 
3
g
13
%
Total Sugars
 
9
g
10
%
Protein
 
21
g
42
%
Vitamin A
 
91
mcg
Vitamin C
 
6
mg
7
%
Vitamin D
 
57
IU
380
%
Calcium
 
339
mg
34
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%
Potassium
 
347
mg
10
%
N/A=data not available
*Marketing Guide
25 Servings:
Fresh cauliflower: 1 lb 1 oz
Fresh onion: 5 oz
50 Servings:
Fresh cauliflower: 2 lb 2 oz
Fresh onion: 10 oz

Notes

*See Marketing Guide for purchasing information on foods that will change during preparation or when a variation of the ingredients is available.
Cooking Process #2: Same Day Service.
Yield / Volume
25 Servings:
About 14 lb 15 oz
About 2 gal/1 steam table pan
(12” x 20” x 2½”)
50 Servings:
About 29 lb 14 oz
About 4 gal/2 steam table pans
(12” x 20” x 2½”)