Macaroni with cheese

Macaroni and cheese – the perfect comfort on a plate

A classic and beloved recipe, macaroni and cheese is a dish that evokes memories of family time, hearty meals, and the joy of savoring a simple yet flavorful preparation. This recipe is not only quick but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of cheese and spices, so you can tailor it to your personal taste.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g macaroni
- 200 g telemea cheese
- 300 g salty burduf cheese or homemade sheep's milk cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

The story of the recipe

Macaroni and cheese is a dish that has crossed generations, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. Today's version is a reinterpretation of simple recipes that emphasizes quality ingredients and quick preparation. It is said that each cook adds a touch of their personality to this recipe, whether through the choice of cheese or various spices.

Ingredient details

- Macaroni: Choose quality macaroni, preferably made from durum wheat, which retains its shape and texture after boiling. This will provide excellent support for the cheese.
- Telemea cheese: This is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly salty and creamy taste that melts perfectly. If you want a more intense flavor, go for sheep telemea cheese.
- Burduf cheese: This is a salty and flavorful cheese that will add an extra touch of flavor to the dish. If you do not have access to burduf cheese, you can use feta cheese as an alternative.
- Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for a more pronounced taste or sunflower oil for a more neutral dish.

Step by step to a perfect result

1. Boil the macaroni: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add a teaspoon of salt, and put the macaroni to cook. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 minutes, until al dente. This means the macaroni should be cooked but still have a slight firmness when bitten.

2. Drain the macaroni: Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander, then rinse them quickly under cold running water. This step stops the cooking process and prevents them from sticking together.

3. Prepare the cheese: Grate the telemea cheese on a large grater. If using burduf cheese, you can mash it with a fork.

4. Heat the oil: In a saucepan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is not too hot, as you do not want to burn it.

5. Mix the macaroni: Add the drained macaroni to the saucepan and mix well to coat them evenly with oil. This will help the cheese adhere better to the pasta.

6. Add the cheese: Over the macaroni, add the telemea cheese and burduf cheese. Gently mix so that the cheese melts and distributes evenly.

7. Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a bit of heat, you can also add a little chili or paprika.

8. Serving: Macaroni and cheese is served hot, alongside a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors. You can also add some roasted peppers for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Practical tips

- If you want to enrich the recipe, try adding ingredients like fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even crispy bacon. These additions will transform the recipe into a more complex and flavorful dish.
- Another delicious variation is to bake the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish. After mixing all the ingredients, place them in a baking dish, sprinkle some breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top, then bake for 15-20 minutes at 180°C. This will create a crispy crust, adding a new dimension to the dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, from penne to fusilli or even spaghetti. Just make sure the cooking time matches the type of pasta chosen.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want a vegan version, you can replace the cheese with nut-based or tofu alternatives.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of macaroni and cheese?
Macaroni and cheese is a good source of carbohydrates that provide energy, and the cheese contributes protein and calcium. However, it's important to consume in moderation, considering the fat and salt content.

In conclusion, macaroni and cheese is a simple yet warm dish, perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. Experiment with cheeses and add your favorite ingredients to create your own version of this classic. Enjoy your meal!