*This dish is suitable for Vegetarians and contains no nuts.*
I figured I would start these cooking/baking posts with one of my absolute favourite dishes, and my speciality, Macaroni Cheese.
The great thing about this dish, even if my husband and children do disagree with me, is that it is a meal suitable for anyone and can be made in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. It is essentially a dish that is not constrained by the recipe you choose to follow.
While suitable for Vegetarians, meat-lovers and vegans don’t have to miss out on this meal. In the past, I have added ham and bacon when cooking it, while I have tried one recipe from a café that added minced beef to it. I have also made a vegan version of my favourite meal, which went down well with my friend who I had specifically cooked it for.
My personal preference is to use four types of cheese with mushrooms and baby tomatoes added to the pasta and sauce.
Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, Plain Flour, Milk, Cheese, and any additional ingredients of your choice.
I have not included measurements as it really is down to what size a meal you are planning to make, but the general rule I apply would be for every 100g of macaroni used, use 100mls of milk.
Most items can be substituted for ingredients of your personal preference, allowing for diet restrictions to be taken into account.
How to Cook:
The following steps are based on making Macaroni Cheese for FOUR people. Please adjust accordingly if making for more or less people.
Step 1: Cook the macaroni (or pasta of your choice) according to the instructions on packet.
Step 2: Melt ONE tablespoon of butter in large saucepan.
Step 3: Add ANY additional ingredients (meat and/or vegetables) and cook until soft.
Step 4: Add TWO large tablespoons of plain flour, stir in and heat for TWO minutes.
Step 5: Add 500mls of milk and stir continuously until it begins to thicken.
Step 6: Add your CHOICE of cheese(s) and stir in until melted and mixed in.
Step 7: Take the sauce off the hob, add the cooked pasta and then pour into a casserole dish (or similar bakeware).
Step 8: Place in pre-heated oven and bake for no more than 15 minutes or until it has begun to brown on top.
Step 9: Serve and enjoy!
Baking & Tantrums 