Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a classic comfort food dish made with macaroni pasta and a creamy cheese sauce. The origins of this beloved dish can be traced back to 18th century England, where it was known as “macaroni pudding” and was considered a luxurious dish served to the wealthy. However, it was not until the 20th century that it became a popular American dish, particularly during the Great Depression when it was a cheap and filling meal. Today, Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a staple in American cuisine and can be found in various forms, from simple home-style recipes to gourmet versions with unique cheeses and toppings. It is loved by people of all ages and is often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and as a side dish in restaurants.
Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil and tip in the macaroni, stirring well to ensure it doesn’t clump up. Boil until just tender but with plenty of bite, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, grill the bacon until crisp, if using. Chop it into snippets and set aside.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan set over a medium heat, then pour in the flour and stir thoroughly over the heat for a minute until you form a smooth roux. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until you have dispersed the roux through the milk. Turn the heat back up to medium and bring to a steady simmer, stirring all the time, until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Taste a little on the end of a teaspoon – it shouldn’t taste floury at all; if it does, cook for another minute or so. Turn off the heat and stir through the Worcestershire sauce and mustard, and a generous grind of black pepper
Sprinkle in about three-quarters of the cheese, stirring until it has melted, then add the cooked macaroni and bacon snippets and stir to combine. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6. Spoon the macaroni into a baking dish and sprinkle over the remaining cheese. Bake in the hot oven for 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Serve immediately.
Feel free to put your own twist on your mac ’n’ cheese using the following ideas for inspiration. Purists may complain, but this is your dinner so add whatever takes your fancy.
Cubed mozzarella sprinkled on top adds a lovely stringy stretch once baked; grated Parmesan adds extra punch, or try smoked Cheddar or Stilton – whatever’s your favourite.
A handful of fresh breadcrumbs sprinkled over the cheese topping adds extra crunch.
A few tomato slices under the cheese topping add extra colour (and a few vitamins!)
Replace the bacon with crisp-fried chorizo or chopped cooked sausage, or a little leftover pulled pork or baked ham.
Add a handful of cooked veggies, such as peas, broccoli or cauliflower
Give it an Italian twist with a dollop of pesto, or a handful of torn basil and a few chopped sundried tomatoes.
