Mac And Cheese Recipe Uk: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Introduction
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by people of all ages. It is a dish that is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes. While this dish originated in the United States, it has become a popular dish all over the world, including the UK. In this article, we will share a delicious mac and cheese recipe that is perfect for a cozy night in.Ingredients
To make this mac and cheese recipe, you will need the following ingredients:- 350g elbow macaroni
- 75g unsalted butter
- 75g plain flour
- 1 tsp English mustard
- 1 litre whole milk
- 350g grated cheese (a mix of mature cheddar and red Leicester works well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect mac and cheese:- Preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6.
- Cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the packet. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and mustard and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the grated cheese and stir until melted.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well coated.
- If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to an ovenproof dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Mac and cheese is not the healthiest dish, but it is a great treat every once in a while. Here is the nutritional information for this mac and cheese recipe:- Calories: 790
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 26g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 820mg
Variations
While this mac and cheese recipe is delicious as is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:- Add some cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
- Stir in some sautéed mushrooms and onions for a more savory flavor.
- Top the mac and cheese with some sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Try using different types of cheese, such as Gouda, blue cheese, or smoked cheese.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect mac and cheese:- Make sure to whisk the sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use whole milk for a creamier, richer sauce.
- Grate your cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use an ovenproof dish that is the right size for the amount of mac and cheese you are making.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.