Mac and cheese is one of those classic comfort foods that can never quite seem to go out of style. It’s hearty, oh-so-cheesy, and can warm you right up from the inside out. But what if you’re looking to switch things up a bit? What if you want to try a new and exciting twist on this old favorite? Look no further than Bahamian Mac and Cheese!
This recipe is beyond tasty, and it’s surprisingly simple too. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 lb of elbow macaroni until al dente. While the macaroni is cooking, you can prepare the cheese sauce.
To make the cheese sauce, melt 3 tbsp of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 3 tbsp of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes or until the roux becomes a light golden brown. Then, gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and stir until the sauce has thickened. Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded monterey jack cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese until everything has melted together smoothly. Finally, season the sauce with some salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Once the macaroni has finished cooking, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until everything is well-coated. Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with some additional cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Now, you may be wondering what makes this mac and cheese “Bahamian.” The answer lies in the inclusion of a few key ingredients. Bahamian mac and cheese often includes onions and bell peppers to add some extra flavor and texture. You can sauté these ingredients separately before adding them to the cheese sauce, or you can throw them into the pot with the macaroni as it cooks. Additionally, many Bahamian mac and cheese recipes call for a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick.
Overall, this Bahamian Mac and Cheese recipe is absolutely delicious and a must-try for any mac and cheese lover. The addition of onions, bell peppers, and spices really take this dish to the next level. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!