Delia Smith's Macaroni Cheese

Delia Smith's Macaroni Cheese is a classic British dish, celebrated for its comforting and rich flavors. Here is a detailed guide on how to recreate this delightful recipe.

Introduction

Delia Smith's Macaroni Cheese is a traditional British recipe, known for its creamy and cheesy goodness. It's a perfect dish for those who appreciate a hearty, comforting meal.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you'll need:

• Macaroni pasta
• Cheeses: A blend of Mature Cheddar and Parmesan
• Basic ingredients for the sauce: butter, plain flour, milk
• Seasonings: Salt, freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and nutmeg
• Fresh breadcrumbs for the topping

Exact measurements can be found in the original recipe sources.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.
3. Make the Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in the flour and cook for about a minute.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Add the Cheese: Off the heat, add most of the Cheddar and Parmesan, seasoning with salt, pepper, cayenne, and nutmeg.
6. Combine: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring even coverage.
7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Mix the remaining cheese with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the top.
8. Bake: Bake for about 20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Suitable for freezing; thaw and then bake when ready.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if needed.

Nutritional Information

Each serving approximately contains:

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use different types of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with various cheeses like Gruyère or Blue Cheese for different flavors.
2. Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
   Certainly! Vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach can be added to the pasta water in the final minutes of cooking.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Oven reheating is recommended for the best texture, but microwaving is also an option.
4. How can I add protein to this dish?
   Consider adding cooked, diced chicken, ham, or for a seafood twist, cooked shrimp.

Delia Smith's Macaroni Cheese is a testament to the comforting power of a well-made pasta dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe balances rich, cheesy flavors with a delightful crunchy topping. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and additions to make it your own!

This recipe is an adaptation of Delia Smith's original recipe.