Macaroni and cheese is one of those quintessential comfort foods that nearly everyone loves, and with good reason: It’s carb-y, cheesy, melty, and an all around good time.
For many of us, it’s a meal that reminds us of the simpler days of childhood, when our mothers would make the dish from scratch. That in and of itself makes mac’n’cheese a pretty magical meal, in my book at least.
But who has the time to make it the way that mom used to do? I know I don’t. But does that mean that you need to resign yourself to making the boxed stuff when you want a comforting lunch or dinner? Luckily, it doesn’t so long as you live near MacDaddy’s—it’s as good as mom used to make (though if anyone out there shows her this article, I’ll claim that my account was hacked).
MacDaddy’s: A Macaroni and Cheese Heaven
MacDaddy’s opened in 2009 in Monroe as a macaroni and cheese bar that served more than 25 varieties of gourmet macaroni and cheese. If you’re a traditionalist, you’ll probably want to stick with the Mac USA, but don’t think that you’re limited to just a combination of macaroni and cheese.
The counter at the Monroe location.
Most of the items on the menu are specialty dishes containing both expected and unexpected combinations, from the Mac Doggy (full of cut up hot dogs) to the Mac Donna Marie (topped with cream cheese and stewed tomatoes) to the Mac Popeye (with spinach and goat cheese) and so much more. Other favorites include things like mushrooms, cheesesteak, buffalo chicken (my favorite), French onion, and even gumbo.
Dishes come in 3 sizes, the “snack” (which is exactly what it sounds like), the “mac” (which is a good-sized serving for one), and the “macdaddy” (which is good size to share, or indulge in if you’re really hungry; no judging). I usually eat a “mac,” but I’ve been known to buy a “macdaddy” and bring half (okay, less than half) home for a snack later in the day.
Want to indulge in mac’n’cheese but can’t stop feeling guilty about it? For a few bucks extra, you can order yours made with whole wheat pasta so that you can fill up on fiber (and at least trick yourself into believing that you’re eating a healthy meal, even though you’re not). Gluten free pasta is also available for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Just look at that gorgeous melty cheese.
You can also get one of 3 salads, but let’s be honest: When you’re sitting at the table with your friends and they’re all eating their goopey bowls of macaroni, you’ll be pretty disappointed with your lettuce.
If You’re Interested in Going
The original MacDaddy’s is located at 650 Main Street Monroe, but in the last few years they’ve added a few more locations around the state: In Fairfield and Milford. (The Fairfield location is closed now.) There’s also one in Texas, if you find yourself out in the loanstar state craving this wonderful comfort food.
The Mac Donna Marie is my go-to choice. Delicious!