If you’ve ever wondered how to make macaroni pie, you’re in for a treat! This beloved Caribbean dish is a comforting, cheesy baked pasta pie that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Unlike the typical mac and cheese, macaroni pie boasts a rich, creamy texture with a delightful blend of spices and a golden crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious macaroni pie right in your kitchen, with simple ingredients and easy steps that anyone can follow.
What Is Macaroni Pie?
Macaroni pie is a baked pasta dish popular in Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago. It’s essentially baked macaroni and cheese but with a twist — a richer custard base made with evaporated milk and eggs, and a flavorful mix of spices such as thyme, nutmeg, and sometimes a hint of heat from Scotch bonnet peppers or cayenne. The result is a firm yet creamy pie that slices beautifully and tastes heavenly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the basic ingredients to get you started. Feel free to adjust quantities depending on your taste and the size of your baking dish:
– 450 grams (about 1 pound) dried elbow macaroni or other tube-shaped pasta
– 2 teaspoons salt (for boiling pasta)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional, for a spicy kick)
– 2 cans (354 mL each) evaporated milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus 1 cup for topping)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus 1 cup for topping)
This combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives the pie a nice balance of sharpness and meltiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×16-inch baking dish or similar size and set it aside.
2. Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente — about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. This ensures the pasta won’t get mushy after baking. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process, then return to the pot.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Pasta and Aromatics
Pour the sautéed mixture into the pot with the cooked macaroni and stir to combine evenly.
5. Mix the Custard Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and stir until the pasta is well coated.
6. Add the Cheese
Fold in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the macaroni mixture. Reserve the remaining 1 cup of cheese for topping.
7. Bake the Macaroni Pie
Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top to form a golden, bubbly crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is set.
8. Let It Rest
Once baked, allow the macaroni pie to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the pie firm up and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for the Perfect Macaroni Pie
– Don’t overcook the pasta: Undercooking the macaroni slightly ensures it won’t become mushy after baking.
– Use evaporated milk: It adds richness and creaminess that regular milk can’t match.
– Spice it up: Adding Scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne gives the pie a subtle heat that balances the cheese’s richness.
– Cheese choice matters: Sharp cheddar provides flavor, while mozzarella adds gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack.
– Rest before serving: Letting the pie cool slightly helps it hold its shape when cut.
Variations to Try
– Add vegetables: Finely grated carrots, celery, or bell peppers can add texture and nutrition.
– Use mayonnaise: Some recipes mix mayonnaise into the custard for extra creaminess.
– Sweeten it: A touch of brown sugar can add a subtle sweetness typical of some Caribbean versions.
Why You’ll Love Making Macaroni Pie
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to make. It’s a fantastic way to bring Caribbean flavors into your home cooking and impress family and friends with a comforting, cheesy meal. Plus, it reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a macaroni pie that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the wonderful taste of homemade macaroni pie!
Macaroni pie is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd. Give it a try, and you might find it becoming a staple in your kitchen!