Mary Berry's Macaroni Cheese: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Mary Berry, a household name synonymous with baking and classic British cooking, has a macaroni cheese recipe that's as comforting as it is delicious. This isn't just any mac and cheese; it's a refined, creamy, cheesy masterpiece. This guide will walk you through her iconic recipe, offering tips and tricks for achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality result at home.
Ingredients for Mary Berry's Macaroni Cheese
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients. Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect consistency:
- Pasta: 350g dried macaroni (elbow macaroni works well too!)
- Butter: 50g, unsalted
- Flour: 50g plain flour
- Milk: 600ml whole milk (full-fat milk is recommended for creaminess)
- Cheese: 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated; 100g Gruyère cheese, grated (or a similar strong cheese)
- Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Optional additions: Breadcrumbs (for topping), extra cheese (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering Mary Berry's Recipe
Follow these steps for a perfectly executed Mary Berry macaroni cheese:
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta
- Boil a large pan of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Important: Don't overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the cheese sauce. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is crucial for thickening the sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Step 3: Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 4: Baking (Optional)
For an extra decadent touch, transfer the macaroni cheese to an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra grated cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F/Gas Mark 4) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Serving
Serve your Mary Berry macaroni cheese immediately. It's delicious on its own or as a side dish to roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Dish
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses! A mix of cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan is also excellent.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a little extra kick.
- Vegetable additions: Incorporate cooked vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or peas for a healthier twist.
- Creamier sauce: Use double cream instead of some of the milk for an ultra-rich sauce.
Why This Recipe is So Popular: The Mary Berry Effect
Mary Berry's recipes are beloved for their simplicity, reliability, and delicious results. This macaroni cheese recipe is no exception. It's a perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a comforting classic that's easy to replicate at home. The combination of cheddar and Gruyère provides a delightful depth of flavour, elevating this dish beyond the ordinary.
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By following these steps and incorporating these tips, you can create a truly exceptional macaroni cheese that even Mary Berry herself would be proud of. Enjoy!
