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Mary Berry’s Macaroni Cheese Cake

Mary Berry’s Macaroni Cheese Cake

What is Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake?

A macaroni cheese cake would combine the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the texture and form of a savory “cake” or casserole.

What Goes Best with Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake?

  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette will cut through the richness.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts would pair well.
  • Tomato Soup: A classic pairing with macaroni cheese.
  • Garlic Bread: Adds crunch and complements the creamy pasta.

Ingredients for Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake

  • 250g (9 oz) macaroni pasta
  • 50g (1.7 oz) butter
  • 50g (1.7 oz) plain flour
  • 600ml (20 fl oz) whole milk
  • 150g (5 oz) mature cheddar cheese, grated
  • 75g (2.6 oz) parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Prepare Mary Macaroni Cheese Cake

Mary Berry’s Macaroni Cheese Cake
  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
    • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
    • Stir in the mustard powder, cheddar, and half of the parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    • Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  4. Make the Cake:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F). Grease a springform cake tin.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheesy pasta mixture with the lightly beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Add the Topping:
    • Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared tin. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining parmesan on top.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Let the macaroni cheese cake cool for 5 minutes before removing it from the tin. Slice into wedges to serve.

Notes

  • Extra Toppings: Add cooked bacon bits, or sautéed onions and garlic for more depth of flavor.
  • Cheese Variations: Use different cheeses such as gruyere or gouda for a richer flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Serve Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake

  • Slice the macaroni cheese cake into wedges and serve warm as a main dish.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake

  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F). Cover the macaroni cheese cake with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.

How to Store Leftovers of Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake

  • Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap individual slices in cling film and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake

  1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, you can make the macaroni cheese cake gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni or any other gluten-free pasta. Also, ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs (if used) and gluten-free flour if you are preparing a roux for the sauce.
  2. Can I substitute different types of cheese in the recipe?
    Absolutely! You can use a variety of cheeses to change the flavor profile. Cheddar is common, but you can try gruyère, gouda, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a stronger taste. Mixing cheeses will give the dish more complexity.
  3. How can I make the macaroni cheese cake more flavorful?
    To boost flavor, you can add garlic, mustard, paprika, or even herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce. A pinch of nutmeg also adds a subtle warmth. Additionally, adding a stronger cheese like parmesan or sharp cheddar will enhance the richness of the dish.
  4. Can I add vegetables to the macaroni cheese cake?
    Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or roasted peppers will enhance both the nutrition and the flavor. Lightly sauté or steam the vegetables before incorporating them into the macaroni mixture to avoid adding excess moisture.
  5. Can I prepare the macaroni cheese cake in advance?
    You can assemble the macaroni cheese cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly.
  6. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dry?
    To prevent dryness, ensure there is enough sauce to coat the pasta well. If you find the mixture too dry, you can add a little extra milk or cream before baking. Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking will also help retain moisture.
  7. Can I freeze the macaroni cheese cake before baking?
    Yes, you can freeze the unbaked macaroni cheese cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake it, you can bake from frozen—just add about 20-30 minutes to the baking time or thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
  8. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
  9. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
    Yes, you can omit the eggs, though the texture may be a bit less firm. The cheese sauce will still bind the pasta together, but you may want to add a little extra cheese for richness and to help with the binding.
  10. What side dishes pair well with macaroni cheese cake?
    A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the macaroni cheese cake. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, sautéed greens like spinach or kale, or garlic bread for a heartier meal.

Nutritional Information of Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Cake (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Michael Tran

Michael Tran is a passionate food writer and culinary enthusiast, known for his expertise in creating delicious, approachable recipes. With a knack for blending flavors and crafting meals that inspire, Michael shares his love for cooking through engaging articles, offering tips, techniques, and mouthwatering recipes to home cooks of all levels.

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