
When Britain's beloved culinary queen Dame Mary Berry shares a recipe, the nation takes notice. Her legendary double cheese pasta bake represents the very essence of comfort food - creamy, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Why This Recipe Has Become a British Classic
This isn't just another pasta dish; it's a masterclass in simple, effective cooking from one of Britain's most trusted food authorities. Mary's genius lies in transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
The Secret Behind the Perfect Cheese Combination
The "double cheese" magic comes from a carefully balanced blend of mature cheddar for depth and Parmesan for that distinctive salty kick. This combination creates layers of flavour that elevate the dish beyond ordinary pasta bakes.
Ingredients You'll Need for This Family Favourite
- 350g penne or rigatoni pasta
- 200g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 50g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 600ml whole milk
- 50g butter
- 50g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon English mustard
- Freshly ground black pepper
Mary Berry's Expert Method for Perfect Results
- Cook the pasta in plenty of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain thoroughly
- Create the cheese sauce by melting butter, stirring in flour to make a roux, then gradually adding milk while whisking continuously
- Add the flavour by stirring in mustard and most of both cheeses (reserving some for topping), seasoning with black pepper
- Combine and bake by mixing the sauce with pasta, transferring to an ovenproof dish, topping with remaining cheese and baking at 200°C/180°C fan for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling
Why This Recipe Works for Every Home Cook
Mary's recipe demonstrates why she remains Britain's favourite cook - it's accessible enough for beginners yet produces results that would impress any dinner guest. The method ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce every time, while the baking creates that irresistible golden crust that makes comfort food so satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend family gatherings, or when you simply need a bowl of proper comfort, this double cheese pasta bake embodies everything we love about British home cooking at its best.