Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese transforms the classic mac and cheese into something truly special. Combining perfectly cooked pasta with a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce, this dish is the epitome of comfort food done right. The magic lies in the balance of flavors and textures: the creamy sauce coats each piece of macaroni, while a crispy golden top adds a satisfying crunch. Mary Berry’s meticulous approach ensures that every bite is rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

What is Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese?

Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese is an elevated version of the traditional mac and cheese, combining the richness of a creamy cheese sauce with the texture of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that is both comforting and indulgent, made with a combination of cheeses that provide depth of flavor and finished with a golden, crispy top. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, a perfect reflection of Mary Berry’s culinary style.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese
• Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Mac And Cheese
• Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The cheese sauce is velvety smooth, coating each piece of macaroni perfectly.
• Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Taste: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish, but the result is anything but ordinary.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dish fits the bill.
• Easily Customizable: You can add your favorite ingredients like bacon, vegetables, or different cheeses to make it your own.
• Comfort Food at its Best: Few things are as satisfying as a warm bowl of homemade macaroni cheese.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• 300g macaroni pasta
• 50g butter
• 50g plain flour
• 600ml milk
• 250g mature cheddar cheese, grated
• 50g parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 50g breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Strainer for draining pasta
• Saucepan for making the cheese sauce
• Whisk to mix the sauce
• Baking dish
• Oven
• Cheese grater (if grating cheese yourself)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

1. Cook the macaroni pasta: Boil in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan, stir in the flour to form a roux, and gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
3. Add the cheese: Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
4. Season the sauce: Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Optional step: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and crispy on top.
7. Serve and enjoy: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Crisp Green Salad: The fresh, crunchy texture of a green salad balances the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
• Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a nice smoky flavor.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the cheesy richness of the dish.
• Tomato Soup: Pairing it with a tangy tomato soup adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Roasted Chicken: A side of roasted chicken can turn this dish into a hearty, complete meal.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Choose the right cheese: Use mature cheddar for a rich flavor, and mix in other cheeses for variety.
• Cook pasta just right: Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente works best to hold up in the sauce.
• Perfect the roux: Take your time making the roux, as it’s the base of a smooth cheese sauce.
• Season well: Don’t forget to season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
• Add breadcrumbs for texture: A breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.
• Don’t skip the bake: If you like a crispy top, bake the dish briefly to get that golden finish.
• Customize to your taste: Feel free to add ingredients like ham, bacon, or vegetables for extra flavor.

Variations of Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Add bacon or ham: For a smoky flavor, mix in cooked bacon or ham pieces.
• Vegetable version: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for a healthier twist.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up.
• Three-cheese version: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, and cheddar for a richer flavor profile.
• Lighter version: Use low-fat milk and cheese for a lighter, less indulgent option.

Storing Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese: Best Practices

• Cool completely before storing: Allow the mac and cheese to cool before transferring it to a container.
• Use airtight containers: Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent drying out.
• Refrigerate for short-term storage: The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for longer storage: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months, ideal for meal prepping.
• Label and date: Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese: Best Practices

• Reheat in the oven for best results: Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it’s dry.
• Microwave for convenience: If using a microwave, cover and reheat in short intervals, stirring between each to heat evenly.
• Avoid drying out: Add a bit of milk or cream before reheating to restore the creaminess.
• Stir halfway through reheating: This ensures even heating and prevents cold spots.
• Cover to retain moisture: Always cover the dish while reheating to keep it from drying out.

How can I make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese healthier?

To make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out regular macaroni for whole wheat pasta to add more fiber.
• Opt for Lower-Fat Cheese: Choose lower-fat versions of cheddar and other cheeses to reduce the fat content.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or tomatoes to boost the nutritional value.
• Reduce Butter: Use less butter in the sauce or substitute with a healthier option like olive oil.
• Cut Back on Salt: Use less salt and rely on herbs and spices for flavor.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

How do I make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese crispy on top?

To achieve a crispy top on your Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan over the dish before baking. Place it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. This finishing touch adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese for later use. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For best results, freeze in individual portions. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating will help maintain its creamy texture.

What type of cheese works best for Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese?

Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese traditionally uses mature cheddar for its rich flavor and smooth melting quality. However, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a touch of blue cheese for added depth and complexity. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well and complement each other for a balanced, creamy sauce.

How do I prevent Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese from becoming dry?

To keep Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese from drying out, ensure that you don’t overbake it. Also, be generous with the cheese sauce, making sure all the pasta is well-coated before baking. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency, and cover the dish while reheating to lock in moisture.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s macaroni cheese is a classic recipe that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its rich cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and the option to add your personal touch, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe is a must-try for any mac and cheese lover.

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Mary Berry Waldorf Salad
• Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Delia Smith Liver and Bacon Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Cheese Ball

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