Description
Brazilian Mac and Cheese, known as ‘Macarrão com Queijo,’ is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 300 grams (about 10.5 oz)
- Cheddar cheese: 250 grams, grated (about 2 cups)
- Heavy cream: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Milk: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Butter: 50 grams (about 3.5 tablespoons)
- Breadcrumbs: 100 grams (about 1 cup)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Optional – Bacon: Cooked and crumbled
- Optional – Sautéed vegetables: Such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
- Optional – Different cheeses: Mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan
- Optional – Spices: A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and milk to the saucepan, stirring gently. Bring to a gentle simmer, then gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and parsley, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Brazilian Mac and Cheese, Macarrão com Queijo, comfort food, pasta, cheese sauce