Macaroni pudding with cheese

Macaroni and cheese pudding: a simple and comforting delight

When looking for a simple yet flavorful dessert, macaroni and cheese pudding is the ideal choice. It is a versatile dish, perfect for moments when we don't have many ingredients on hand but crave something sweet to delight our taste buds.

The history of this dessert is fascinating. Over time, in various corners of the world, macaroni has been used not only in savory dishes but also in sweet ones. Macaroni and cheese pudding has evolved into many forms, each bringing a touch of local culinary traditions while retaining its essence: a delicious combination of pasta, cheese, and flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 250 g macaroni (preferably small or medium macaroni)
- 5 large eggs
- 400 g sheep cheese (or cottage cheese, depending on preference)
- 250 g sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Grated zest of one lemon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Boil the macaroni: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Typically, they boil for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Heat the macaroni: In the same pot, add the 2 tablespoons of oil and place it over low heat. Add the drained macaroni and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs well. Add the grated cheese (use a large grater for the perfect texture), sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix everything until you get a homogeneous composition.

4. Combine the ingredients: Add the sautéed macaroni to the cheese and egg mixture. Gently mix to ensure all ingredients are well integrated without breaking the macaroni.

5. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish, leveling it evenly.

6. Bake the pudding: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the pudding dish inside. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn, as each oven is different.

7. Serve: Macaroni and cheese pudding can be enjoyed warm or cold. You can dust it with a little sugar for an elegant look and added sweetness. It is also delicious alongside a scoop of ice cream or a berry sauce.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice to the cheese mixture.
- Substitute sheep cheese with cottage cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Add some raisins or dried fruit to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sugar, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This delicious pudding not only offers a pleasant culinary experience but also essential nutrients. A serving of pudding (approximately 1/6 of the recipe) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the type of cheese used. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins, thanks to the eggs and cheese.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain macaroni?
Of course! Whole grain macaroni will add extra fiber and nutrients.
- Is this pudding suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, but make sure the cheese used is vegetarian.
- Can I make the pudding in advance?
Yes, the pudding can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving to restore its texture.

Delicious combinations:
Macaroni and cheese pudding pairs perfectly with a cup of warm milk or a fruit tea. You can also experiment with fruit sauces or a whipped cream topping for a more decadent dessert.

Personal story:
This recipe reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when my grandmother prepared the pudding with great love. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, and the aroma of cheese and vanilla always urged us to return to the table for another serving. I encourage you to create similar memories in your kitchen, turning this simple recipe into a moment of joy and connection with loved ones.

Enjoy this macaroni and cheese pudding, a dessert that blends tradition with innovation, and let its comforting flavors carry you away!