Mary Berry, the renowned culinary expert, has shared a delightful macaroni cheese recipe that is both freezer-friendly and ideal for the whole family. This comforting, creamy dish offers a straightforward preparation method with minimal ingredients, making it a go-to option for busy households.
Recipe Overview and Freezing Tips
According to the recipe notes, this macaroni cheese is perfect for batch cooking and freezing. The sauce may appear thin initially, but it thickens beautifully when baked from frozen. This versatile recipe serves four as a side dish or two as a main course, providing flexibility for different meal plans.
Ingredients for the Dish
For the macaroni cheese:
- 150g macaroni pasta
- 55g unsalted butter
- 55g plain flour
- 900ml hot milk
- One tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 55g Parmesan, coarsely grated
- 100g mature cheddar, coarsely grated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the topping:
- 100g mature cheddar, coarsely grated
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Cook the macaroni in a large pan of boiling salted water according to packet instructions until al dente. Drain, run under cold water, and drain again.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook briefly.
- Reduce the heat and gradually whisk in the hot milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Bring to a boil, whisking constantly, until the sauce achieves a thin coating consistency.
- Stir in the mustard, Parmesan, and cheddar. Season with salt and pepper, then add the drained pasta and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a shallow 1.5-1.7L ovenproof dish and scatter the cheddar topping over it.
Freezing and Cooking Instructions
To freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely, then cover with cling film and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook from frozen, preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan. Remove the cling film and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until piping hot throughout. If the middle remains cold, cover with foil and return to the oven for an additional five to 10 minutes. Serve immediately for the best results.
This recipe exemplifies Mary Berry's expertise in creating practical, family-oriented meals that can be prepared in advance, saving time and effort while delivering a delicious, homely experience.
