Macaroni cheese, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary hug. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I’ve spent considerable time perfecting my version, inspired by the acclaimed Delia Smith. Known for her simple yet exquisite recipes, Delia Smith has been a guiding light in my kitchen endeavors. My rendition of macaroni cheese aims to capture the essence of her style: foolproof, deeply flavorful, and complete with a crispy golden crust that’s utterly irresistible. Join me on this culinary journey as we create a comforting classic that promises to delight every palate.
Why You’ll Be Glad To Try This Recipe
You’re in for a real treat with Delia Smith’s macaroni cheese recipe. It’s more than just a comforting plate of food; it’s a little bit of culinary magic. This recipe takes a familiar favorite and elevates it with that special Delia touch. You’ll love the rich, creamy texture, the perfectly balanced flavors, and that irresistibly crispy top. It’s straightforward enough for beginners but has those little twists that even experienced cooks will appreciate. So, whether you’re whipping up a midweek dinner or something special for friends, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and see why it’s a beloved classic!
How To Make Delia Smith Inspired Macaroni Cheese Recipe Overview
This recipe serves up a delightful twist on the traditional macaroni cheese. The cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, with about 15 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of baking. It’s designed to serve around 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or a comforting meal with friends. The heart of this dish lies in its creamy sauce, enriched with a blend of mature Cheddar and Parmesan, and a hint of spice from cayenne and nutmeg. The golden breadcrumb topping provides a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft, cheesy pasta underneath.
Ingredients
- 340g (12 oz) of Macaroni
- 60g (2 oz) Butter
- 60g (2 oz) Plain Flour
- 855 ml (1.5 pints) Milk
- 260g (9 oz) Mature Cheddar Cheese, grated
- 75g (2.5 oz) Parmesan Cheese, grated
- Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper
- A pinch of Cayenne Pepper
- A generous pinch of Nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons Fresh Breadcrumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Oven Ready
Let’s start by getting the oven nice and hot. Preheat it to 200°C (400°F, gas mark 6). This will give us the perfect temperature for that golden crust we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Perfect Pasta
Now, onto the macaroni. Cook it in boiling, salted water until it’s just right – al dente. We don’t want it too soft, as it’ll cook further in the oven. Once done, drain it and put it aside. This is where our dish starts taking shape.
Step 3: Building the Base
Time for the sauce! In a saucepan, let’s melt the butter over medium heat. Then, stir in the flour and cook it for about a minute. This is the roux – the thickening magic for our sauce.
Step 4: Smooth and Silky
Now, gradually whisk in the milk. It’s important to do this slowly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This is where patience pays off – we’re looking for a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 5: Cheese, Please!
Take the sauce off the heat and let’s get cheesy. Stir in most of the Cheddar and Parmesan, keeping some aside for the topping later. Season with salt, pepper, a pinch of cayenne, and a dash of nutmeg for that extra zing.
Step 6: Combine and Conquer
Mix the cooked macaroni into your lovely cheese sauce. Make sure every piece gets a good coating. Then, transfer the whole cheesy goodness into a baking dish. We’re almost there!
Step 7: The Final Touch
Now for the final flourish. Mix the remaining cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle it over the top of the macaroni. This will create that irresistible crust we’ve been talking about.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Into the oven, it goes for about 20 minutes. What we’re looking for is a beautiful golden brown top and edges that bubble with promise. Once it’s there, you’ll know it’s ready to wow your taste buds.
And there you have it – your very own macaroni-cheese masterpiece, inspired by Delia Smith but infused with your own culinary touch. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors and the satisfaction of creating something truly special in your kitchen.
Also Try: Delia Smith Broccoli and Stilton soup Recipe
Nutritional Value (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 500mg
Cholesterol: 30mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely, you can switch up the cheese! If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types like Gruyère for a nutty flavor or a bit of Blue Cheese for a tangy twist. Even a good Mozzarella can add a lovely stretchiness. Mixing and matching cheeses can bring a whole new dimension to your macaroni cheese. Just remember to choose ones that melt well for that creamy, dreamy texture we all love in a good mac and cheese.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great idea! It’s easy to mix in veggies like broccoli, peas, or spinach. Just add them to the boiling pasta water in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color, nutrition, and a bit of extra flavor to your macaroni cheese. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more greens into your meal. Feel free to experiment with different veggies to find your favorite combination. Enjoy your veggie-boosted mac and cheese!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating your macaroni cheese leftovers is simple. The best way is to pop them in the oven. Heat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and warm the mac and cheese until it’s hot all the way through. This method helps keep the texture nice and creamy. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave. Just stir it a bit halfway through heating to keep the warmth even. Either way, you’ll get to enjoy your tasty dish all over again!
How can I add protein to this dish?
Adding protein to macaroni cheese is a great way to make it more filling. You can stir in cooked, diced chicken or ham when you mix the macaroni with the cheese sauce. If you prefer seafood, try adding cooked shrimp for a delightful twist. For a vegetarian option, cooked lentils or chickpeas can be a fantastic protein-rich addition. Just mix your protein choice in before baking, and you’ll have a delicious, more nutritious version of the classic dish.
Conclusion
Delia Smith’s macaroni cheese, reimagined through my culinary journey, offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and rich flavors, topped with a satisfyingly crunchy crust. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or a dish to impress, this recipe promises to deliver. The joy of cooking is in the experimentation, so don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking and the wonderful meal that awaits!
Delia Smith Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 340 g 12 oz of Macaroni
- 60 g 2 oz Butter
- 60 g 2 oz Plain Flour.
- 855 ml 1.5 pints Milk
- 260 g 9 oz Mature Cheddar Cheese, grated
- 75 g 2.5 oz Parmesan Cheese, grated
- Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper
- A pinch of Cayenne Pepper
- A generous pinch of Nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons Fresh Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Let’s start by getting the oven nice and hot. Preheat it to 200°C (400°F, gas mark 6). This will give us the perfect temperature for that golden crust we’re aiming for.
- Now, onto the macaroni. Cook it in boiling, salted water until it’s just right – al dente. We don’t want it too soft, as it’ll cook further in the oven. Once done, drain it and put it aside. This is where our dish starts taking shape.
- Time for the sauce! In a saucepan, let’s melt the butter over medium heat. Then, stir in the flour and cook it for about a minute. This is the roux – the thickening magic for our sauce.
- Now, gradually whisk in the milk. It’s important to do this slowly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This is where patience pays off – we’re looking for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Take the sauce off the heat and let’s get cheesy. Stir in most of the Cheddar and Parmesan, keeping some aside for the topping later. Season with salt, pepper, a pinch of cayenne, and a dash of nutmeg for that extra zing.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into your lovely cheese sauce. Make sure every piece gets a good coating. Then, transfer the whole cheesy goodness into a baking dish. We’re almost there!
- Now for the final flourish. Mix the remaining cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle it over the top of the macaroni. This will create that irresistible crust we’ve been talking about.
- Into the oven, it goes for about 20 minutes. What we’re looking for is a beautiful golden brown top and edges that bubble with promise. Once it’s there, you’ll know it’s ready to wow your taste buds.
