Easy Baked Haitian Mac and Cheese Recipe
Haitian mac and cheese, a delectable baked pasta dish, blends creamy richness with a medley of savory spices and aromatics for a unique culinary experience.
Equipment
- The following kitchen tools are essential for preparing Haitian Mac and Cheese:
- Large pot (for cooking macaroni)
- Colander (for draining macaroni)
- Large saucepan (for preparing bchamel sauce)
- Whisk (for making bchamel sauce)
- Food processor or blender (for making Epis)
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for cheese)
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyre cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Haitian Epis (recipe follows)
- Optional: 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely minced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for topping
- Haitian Epis Recipe
- 1 green bell pepper, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 scallions, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, roughly chopped
- 2 sprigs thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Epis: Combine all Epis ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until a smooth paste forms. Adjust water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Step 2: Cook the Macaroni: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Bchamel Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Epis. Add cheddar, Gruyre, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Incorporate minced Scotch bonnet pepper, if using. Reserve 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar for topping.
- Step 5: Combine and Bake: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with reserved cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Drizzle with melted butter.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses. For a smoother sauce, use a whisk continuously. Breadcrumbs can be seasoned with herbs. Leftover can be stored in fridge and used within three days.
Notes
Variations
Several variations can enhance or adapt this dish to individual preferences or dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps: Different cheeses, such as fontina or provolone, may replace the Gruyere or mozzarella. Vegetable substitutions include adding roasted bell peppers or spinach. For a smokier flavor, smoked Gouda is a viable alternative.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating coconut milk into the bchamel sauce provides a distinct tropical flavor. Adding a touch of rum to the cheese sauce enhances the Caribbean essence. Some recipes include diced plantains for added sweetness and texture.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free option, gluten-free macaroni and a cornstarch-based bchamel sauce can be utilized. A dairy-free version can be achieved by using plant-based milk, cheese, and butter alternatives. Reduce sodium intake by using low-sodium bouillon and reducing the amount of added salt.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and can be served in several ways:
- It can be served as a main course alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
- It can be presented as a side dish at gatherings, complementing grilled meats or poultry.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, which enhances the taste during warmer months
Storage Tips
Proper storage preserves the freshness and quality of the dish:
- Leftover dish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, the dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time.
- Question 2: Can the recipe be doubled for a larger gathering?
- Answer: Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled. Be sure to use a larger baking dish.
- Question 3: What is the best way to prevent the macaroni from drying out during baking?
- Answer: Ensure the cheese sauce is sufficiently creamy and the dish is covered with breadcrumbs and butter before baking. Covering the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time can also help.
- Question 4: Is it possible to freeze Haitian Mac and Cheese?
- Answer: Freezing is possible, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze individual portions and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.