Randy Chandler
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish for large gatherings, but how much you need depends on whether it is served as a main course or a side dish. A typical serving size for macaroni and cheese as a side dish is about 1/2 cup to 1 cup per person. For a main course, a pound of pasta will serve at least four people. To make 10 pounds of macaroni and cheese, you will likely need multiple large pans and a lot of cheese, and it will serve a large number of people depending on their appetite and age.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 1/2 cup to 1 cup |
| Number of servings | 20 servings to 200 servings |
| Additional ingredients | Meat, vegetables, or spices |
| Baking temperature | 350 °F to 400 °F |
| Baking time | 30 minutes to 2 hours |
| Baking dish | Long and shallow, or deep and narrow |
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What You'll Learn
Mac and cheese as a side dish
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side. When served as a side, a typical serving size is about 1/2 cup to 1 cup per person. This allows for a generous scoop, and the cheese sauce ensures that it is quite filling.
For a crowd of 10-12 people, a 13" x 9" baking dish is recommended, with some suggesting an additional smaller dish to catch any overflow. This dish size is also known as a half-sized foil steam table pan, and it is recommended to place it on a baking sheet for stability.
When preparing mac and cheese for a large group, it is important to consider the shape of the baking pan. A long, shallow pan will result in more of the desirable crunchy topping, while a deeper, narrower pan will yield more of the soft, cheesy interior.
For larger groups, hotel pans are recommended. These are the large pans typically seen in buffets, measuring 12 x 20 inches and 2.5 to 4 inches deep. Two of these pans can serve 50 to 80 people, depending on the age group and serving size. For a group of 50 older people, 64 oz of dry pasta is sufficient, while 80 oz is recommended for teens and families.
When preparing mac and cheese as a side dish for a large group, it is a good idea to consider making it in batches. This ensures that the pasta does not become overcooked or soggy. Additionally, it is important to note that a very large pot of salted water is ideal for boiling the pasta, but when working with limited pot sizes, the pasta can simply be divided between two pots.
Mac and cheese is a crowd favourite and a versatile dish that can be adapted to feed a large group. With some planning and the right equipment, it is possible to serve this delicious side dish to a crowd of any size.
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Serving size
The serving size for macaroni and cheese depends on whether it is served as a main dish or a side dish. When served as a side, a typical serving size is 1/2 cup to 1 cup per person. For a main dish, a pound of pasta will serve at least four people.
For a crowd of 50 people, 64 to 80 ounces of dry pasta is needed, depending on the age of the guests. If feeding older people, 64 ounces will suffice, whereas 80 ounces are recommended when serving teens or families.
For a group of 70 people, one source recommends 6 pounds of elbow macaroni, along with 6 pounds each of shredded sharp cheddar, sour cream, and small-curd cottage cheese. However, another source suggests that this amount may be excessive for a side dish, as it calculates a total of 24 pounds of food.
For larger crowds, such as 100 people, a recipe that yields 10 servings can be adjusted to serve a larger group. This recipe calls for 6 pounds of macaroni and 5 pounds of Velveeta cheese, baked for about 2 hours. With the addition of 24 pounds of cubed ham, this recipe can serve 120 people.
The shape of the baking pan can also affect the serving size. A long, shallow pan will result in more of the "crunchy stuff," while a deeper, narrower pan will yield more of the soft "insides."
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Baking instructions
To make 10 pounds of macaroni and cheese, you will need to prepare a few large batches. Here are the baking instructions for a crowd-sized macaroni and cheese:
First, decide on the type of pasta you want to use. Elbow macaroni is a common choice, but other shapes such as large elbow noodles or regular pasta can also be used. Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions, boiling it until al dente. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so boil it for slightly less time than you normally would. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Next, prepare the cheese sauce. In a large pot, melt butter and add starch (such as flour) to create a roux. Whisk in milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens. You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less milk; it should be similar to a hearty soup or béchamel sauce. Add salt and taste for seasoning—this step is crucial to ensure your macaroni and cheese is flavourful. If desired, you can also add spices like dijon mustard, hot sauce, or black pepper to taste.
Now it's time to combine the pasta and cheese sauce. In a large bowl, gently mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until everything is coated evenly. Be careful not to mash the pasta during this step. If using multiple types of cheese, you can also add shredded cheese to the mixture and stir to combine.
Preheat your oven to between 350-400℉. Spray your baking dishes with non-stick spray or grease them with butter or margarine. You will likely need multiple large baking dishes or hotel pans to accommodate the 10 pounds of macaroni and cheese. Fill each dish about 3/4 of the way full with the pasta and cheese mixture.
Top the dishes with any desired toppings, such as shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or a butter-cracker mixture. You can also add crispy, crumbled bacon to the topping for extra flavour.
Bake the macaroni and cheese for approximately 25-60 minutes, depending on the size of your dishes and the number of batches you are baking. The dish is ready when it is golden and bubbly around the edges. If you prefer a crunchy top, leave it in the oven for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn.
Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to cool slightly and sets the crispy topping.
With these instructions, you should be able to make and bake a large quantity of macaroni and cheese. Remember to taste and season your sauce, and don't be afraid to get creative with your cheese and topping choices!
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Ingredients
To make 10 pounds of macaroni and cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
Macaroni
A typical serving of macaroni and cheese as a side dish is about 1/2 cup. For 10 pounds of macaroni and cheese, you will need about 20 servings, which equates to about 10 cups of dried macaroni. Elbow macaroni is a popular choice for this recipe, but any bite-sized pasta will work.
Butter and Flour
Butter and flour are used to make a roux, which is the base of the cheese sauce. You will need about two tablespoons of butter for the roux and another two tablespoons for the topping. For the roux, cook the butter and flour together until golden.
Milk
Milk is used to create a creamy cheese sauce. For the richest flavor and texture, use whole milk. You will need about two cups of milk for the sauce, and additional milk can be added to adjust the consistency to your preference.
Cheese
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for macaroni and cheese, but you can also use melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina. You will need shredded or grated cheese for the sauce and topping. A combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses works well, and you can add extra shredded cheese to the casserole for an extra cheesy dish. Don't forget to taste for seasoning, especially salt, as this will make a difference in the final dish.
Seasonings
In addition to salt, you can use seasonings like paprika and pepper to enhance the flavor of your macaroni and cheese. These can be added to the sauce or sprinkled over the topping.
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs are optional but can add a nice texture to your macaroni and cheese. You can use store-bought dried breadcrumbs or make your own at home.
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Cooking for a large group
Mac and cheese is a great dish to serve for a large group, as it's easy to scale up the recipe and it's a crowd-pleaser. Here are some tips and considerations for cooking mac and cheese for a large group:
Planning and Preparation:
Before cooking for a large group, it's essential to plan and prepare. Consider the number of people you need to serve and the serving size. A typical serving size for mac and cheese as a side dish is about 1/2 cup. If serving as a main dish, you may need a larger quantity.
Scaling the Recipe:
When scaling up a mac and cheese recipe, you can generally multiply the ingredients by the desired factor. However, pay attention to the cooking process and divide it into batches if necessary. For example, cooking the pasta in multiple batches may be more manageable.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
If you're preparing mac and cheese ahead of time, you can cook the pasta al dente and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also make the crumbs or topping ahead of time. Just be mindful of the storage space required, especially if you're making a large batch.
Cooking in Batches:
Consider using multiple pots or pans to cook the mac and cheese in batches. This ensures that you have enough space to stir and mix the ingredients effectively. It's also helpful to have a large serving spoon or ladle to portion out the mac and cheese.
Serving and Presentation:
For a large group, it's advisable to use chafing dishes or buffet-style serving. You can keep the mac and cheese warm in chafing dishes or slow cookers, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious. If serving directly from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Customization and Add-Ins:
Mac and cheese is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes. You can add meats like ham, bacon, or pulled chicken, or vegetables like corn. Spices and herbs like parsley can also enhance the flavor. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and toppings to create a unique dish.
Cooking mac and cheese for a large group can be a fun and rewarding experience. With proper planning, scaling the recipe, and attention to cooking and serving techniques, you'll be able to feed a hungry crowd and receive plenty of compliments!
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Frequently asked questions
Depending on the recipe, 10 lbs of macaroni can serve 50 to 200 people.
A typical serving size for mac and cheese is 1/2 cup to 1 cup.
For 50 people, 2 hotel pans are required. For 100 people, 4 to 6 hotel pans may be needed.
Yes, you can prepare mac and cheese a day ahead and bake it before serving.
