Ever thought a simple macaroni cheese could make a meal special? The Mary Berry macaroni cheese recipe is known for its rich taste and warmth. It’s great for family meals or a quiet dinner, mixing tradition with ease.
With just a few ingredients, you can make a tasty dish for up to six people. We’ll show you how to prepare the pasta, make the creamy cheese sauce, and bake it to perfection.
Get ready to enjoy this comforting pasta dish. It’s sure to make everyone want more.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe serves a family of 6, perfect for gatherings.
- Preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, with a baking time of around 20 minutes.
- Customise with gluten-free or dairy-free options to suit dietary needs.
- Utilise leftovers conveniently with proper storage and reheating tips.
- Discover the balance of flavours that makes this dish a classic.
Introduction to Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Mary Berry’s macaroni cheese is a beloved dish. It combines cheese and pasta for a special meal. The mix of aged Cheddar and Parmesan adds a rich flavour.
What Makes Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe Special
This recipe is special because of its quality ingredients and simple steps. Adding crispy bacon or fresh herbs makes it even tastier. The cheese sauce is creamy, perfect for any time you want comfort food.
The Comfort of Macaroni Cheese
Macaroni cheese is a favourite comfort food in the UK. It’s perfect for family gatherings and celebrations. On cold nights, it brings back warm memories. It’s easy to make, great for busy families.
Ingredients for Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Creating a delightful dish starts with the right ingredients. The famous Mary Berry macaroni cheese recipe is a great example. It combines flavours and textures perfectly, making it a top comfort food.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
First, collect these key ingredients for your macaroni cheese:
- 300g dried macaroni
- 50g butter for the sauce
- 50g plain flour
- 750ml hot milk
- 200g grated mature cheddar cheese
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large tomatoes
- 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
Optional Ingredients for Customisation
Adding your own twist can make the dish even better. Think about these optional ingredients:
- Dijon mustard for a tangy kick
- Breadcrumbs to create a crisp topping
- Cooked bacon or vegetables like spinach or peas for added flavour and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the perfect macaroni cheese is easy with a clear recipe. Follow these simple steps to enjoy a delicious dish.
Preparing the Pasta
Start by boiling 300g of macaroni in a large pot of salted water. It takes about 8-10 minutes for it to be al dente. After, drain the pasta and set it aside for the cheese sauce.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Melt 50g of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 50g of plain flour, making a roux. Then, whisk in 600ml of whole milk slowly.
Keep cooking until the sauce thickens. Add 200g of grated mature cheddar, 50g of grated Parmesan, and 100g of grated mozzarella (if using) for extra creaminess. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. This makes the sauce creamy and cheesy.
Combining Ingredients and Baking
Stir in the cooked, chopped chicken breasts along with the macaroni before transferring to a baking dish. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Make sure all pasta is well-coated. If you want, put the mix in a greased baking dish.
For crunch, sprinkle 50g of panko breadcrumbs and extra grated cheddar on top. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 10-15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Creating the perfect macaroni cheese needs focus and insider tips, read this Guardian article for expert tips and tricks. Choose the right ingredients and cooking methods for better flavour and texture. Follow these tips to make your macaroni cheese stand out.
Choosing the Right Cheese
The type of cheese you pick is key. A mix of mature cheddar and mozzarella is best for a creamy texture. Adding Gruyère or blue cheese can deepen the flavour.
Each cheese adds its own taste. Try different mixes to create your own special macaroni cheese.
Preventing a Dry Dish
A dry macaroni cheese is a disappointment. Make sure your cheese sauce is thick but not too thick. Stir it constantly while it simmers to keep it smooth.
If it gets too thick, add some pasta cooking water. This will make it creamy again.
Customising mary berry macaroni cheese recipe
Make your macaroni cheese your own. Add fresh herbs, spices, or roasted veggies for a twist. Try truffle oil or smoked paprika for a fancy touch.
The options are endless. This classic dish can be made special for any event.
Serving Suggestions of Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe
To enjoy your macaroni cheese, try pairing it with side dishes. These will make your meal even better. They turn your classic comfort food into a feast.
Complementary Sides for a Complete Meal
Adding these sides to your macaroni cheese makes dining better:
- Fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for the cheesy sauce
- Roasted vegetables for health
- Steamed greens like broccoli or spinach for colour
Creative Variations for Different Occasions
Try new macaroni cheese ideas for fun meals. Here are some:
- Lobster mac and cheese for celebrations
- Spicy with crushed red pepper for a kick
- Seasonal with butternut squash in autumn
- Different cheeses like blue or goat for unique tastes
These changes make macaroni cheese perfect for any event. It suits all tastes and occasions.
Conclusion
Mary Berry macaroni cheese recipe is a true comforting dish. It’s simple yet full of flavour. This makes it perfect for any meal, whether it’s a regular dinner or a special occasion.
The mix of aged cheddar and mozzarella cheese is rich and satisfying. It’s a delight to eat.
Following this recipe will give you a delicious meal. It also makes a perfect family meal experience. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the warmth it brings to your home.
Mary Berry macaroni cheese recipe is great because you can make it your own. You can also enjoy leftovers for up to three days. Each bite is a golden, bubbling treat that brings everyone together.
Loved this recipe? Try these 4 mouthwatering dishes next! Check out our Mild Sausage with Leggs Seasoning Mix, Gourmet Pizza, Halibut and Spinach, and The Mule El Cortez Sandwich Copycat Recipe—each one is packed with flavor and sure to impress!
FAQ
What type of cheese should I use for mary berry macaroni cheese recipe?
Use mature cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella for the best taste. This mix gives a creamy texture that’s perfect for macaroni cheese.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Adding spinach or peas makes it fresh and nutritious.
How do I prevent my macaroni cheese from drying out?
Make sure your cheese sauce is thick but not too thick. A bit of extra milk keeps it creamy.
Is it possible to customise the seasoning in mary berry macaroni cheese recipe?
Absolutely! Try adding Dijon mustard, herbs, or spices to make it your own.
What can I serve alongside macaroni cheese?
Serve it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a full meal.
Can I make this mary berry macaroni cheese recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven before serving.
What variations can I try to make my macaroni cheese more exciting?
Try adding cooked bacon for richness. Or, get fancy with lobster mac and cheese or spicy red pepper.
