Hairy Bikers Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Look no further than the deliciously indulgent Hairy Bikers Macaroni Cheese. With its creamy texture, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of tanginess, this recipe puts a delightful twist on the classic dish, promising to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort and flavor!
Ingredients
- 300 g macaroni pasta: The foundation of the dish choose a high-quality macaroni pasta for the best texture.
- 50 g butter: Provides richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 50 g plain flour: Used as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce.
- 600 ml milk: Creates a creamy and smooth texture in the cheese sauce.
- 200 g strong cheddar cheese grated: The star ingredient that adds sharpness and tanginess to the dish.
- 100 g gruyere cheese grated: A Swiss cheese that contributes nutty and earthy flavors.
- 100 g smoked cheese grated: Adds a smoky element to the macaroni cheese.
- 1 tsp mustard powder: Gives a subtle hint of tanginess and depth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall seasoning of the macaroni cheese.
- 50 g breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy and golden topping.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese for topping: Adds a savory and nutty flavor to the dish.
Instructions
Boiling the Macaroni
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the macaroni pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the instructions on the packet. Ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
- Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the plain flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for a minute to form a smooth paste. This is called a roux, which will thicken the sauce
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking the mixture continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the grated cheddar, gruyere, and smoked cheese to the saucepan, reserving a small amount of each cheese for later. Stir the mixture until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Sprinkle in the mustard powder and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Combining the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until every pasta piece is coated in the creamy mixture. Ensure that the sauce is evenly distributed throughout.
- Transfer the macaroni cheese into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Baking the Macaroni Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens).
- Sprinkle the reserved grated cheeses, breadcrumbs, and freshly grated parmesan cheese on top of the macaroni cheese. This will create a cheesy and crispy crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.