Teresa's Recipes
Gratin de Macaroni
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy Gratin de Macaroni, a classic French dish that warms the heart and soul. With perfectly cooked macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, this gratin is topped with a golden crust of Gruyere cheese that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Often enjoyed as a luxurious side dish or a satisfying main course, this dish has roots tracing back to 18th-century France, showcasing the nation's love for pasta and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Macaroni
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Milk
- 2 cups, divided Gruyere cheese, grated
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6-8
- Dish Type: Main Course or Side Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the grated Gruyere cheese and the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Gruyere cheese generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes before serving, to let the flavors meld.
Tips
- For a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- You can also mix in cooked vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.