Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe (UK)
The UK's love affair with mac and cheese knows no bounds. This recipe delivers a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and perfectly portioned "tini" mac and cheese – ideal for a quick lunch, a comforting snack, or a fun appetizer. We've adapted it to readily available ingredients in the UK, ensuring a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes one individual serving (easily doubled or tripled!).
- 1 tbsp Butter: Unsalted is best for controlling salt levels.
- 1 tbsp Plain Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly.
- 100ml Whole Milk: Full-fat milk creates the richest, creamiest sauce. Semi-skimmed can be used but may result in a slightly thinner consistency.
- 50g Mature Cheddar Cheese, grated: A strong, sharp cheddar is ideal. Consider a mature Red Leicester or a blend for extra flavour.
- 25g Pasta: Small pasta shapes like macaroni, shells, or ditalini work best. Ensure it's the type you can easily find in UK supermarkets.
- Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper: To taste.
- Optional Toppings: Breadcrumbs, crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of paprika.
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Important: Don't overcook! Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the cheese sauce.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux (a paste of butter and flour). This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
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Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth. This takes a few minutes.
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Stir in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it's completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly.
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Serve: Transfer the tini mac and cheese to an oven-safe ramekin or small bowl. Top with your chosen optional additions (breadcrumbs are excellent for a golden, crispy topping – just bake for a few minutes until golden brown). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Tini Mac and Cheese:
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Gruyère, or even a little Stilton for a bolder flavour, can elevate this dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a touch of heat.
- Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of crème fraîche or double cream at the end.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked bacon, ham, or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
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