Patrick Oconnell
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish, but does it contain wheat? The answer is that it depends on the recipe and ingredients used. Some recipes call for whole wheat macaroni, which can be purchased or made from scratch, resulting in a healthier dish with a better texture and flavour than highly processed macaroni. Other recipes offer gluten-free alternatives, using gluten-free pasta and flour made from ingredients like almond, cassava, corn, rice, or chickpea.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Pasta | Whole-wheat, gluten-free |
| Ingredients | Whole wheat macaroni, flour, milk, butter, cheese, salt, pepper, olive oil, broccoli |
| Time | Takes a similar amount of time to make as boxed mac and cheese |
| Taste | Better than boxed mac and cheese |
| Freezer-friendly | Yes |
| Shelf life | 3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Whole wheat macaroni and cheese recipes
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food. While the traditional version of this dish is made with refined flour, whole wheat macaroni and cheese recipes offer a more nutritious alternative. Here is a guide to preparing delicious whole wheat macaroni and cheese, with some recipe variations to explore.
Ingredients
Whole wheat macaroni, butter, whole wheat flour, milk, grated cheese (mild cheddar, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of different cheeses), salt, and pepper. You can also add cream and chicken stock for extra creaminess and flavour.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by cooking the whole wheat macaroni according to the package directions. To avoid mushy pasta, boil the pasta for a shorter time, just until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add whole wheat flour and whisk until well combined. Slowly add milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and there are no lumps. For a creamier sauce, you can add some cream and whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining the Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the grated cheese and stir until melted. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well. For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle additional cheese on top. Bake until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is crispy around the edges.
Variations
For added depth of flavour, you can include ingredients like whole grain mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried mustard. These ingredients complement the cheese sauce and create a tangy, savoury profile. Additionally, using chicken stock in place of some of the milk adds a savoury touch to the dish.
Storage and Freezing
Whole wheat macaroni and cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then seal it in a freezer container or airtight bag.
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Gluten-free macaroni and cheese recipes
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish, but it often contains wheat, which can be a problem for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. However, there are many gluten-free options and recipes available that allow people with gluten sensitivity to enjoy this classic comfort food without compromising on taste or texture.
One of the simplest ways to make gluten-free macaroni and cheese is to use gluten-free pasta options readily available in the market. You can choose from a variety of pasta shapes such as elbows, shells, penne, or rigatoni to add an interesting twist to the traditional macaroni shape.
For the cheese sauce, which is the star of the dish, it is recommended to shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-clumping preservatives that can prevent smooth melting. You can use a combination of cheeses such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, or Velveeta to create a rich and creamy sauce. To make the sauce, start by creating a roux—melt butter and mix it with gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch/arrowroot to thicken the sauce. Then, slowly add milk or cream, and spices to taste. Finally, add about one-third of the shredded cheese to the sauce and mix until melted.
Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, but remember to undercook it by a couple of minutes. This helps separate the pasta from the sauce and prevents the pasta from breaking down, which is common with gluten-free varieties. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the cheese sauce to the cooked pasta and mix well. You can serve it straight from the pot or bake it for a crispy, cheesy topping.
If you want to bake your macaroni and cheese, preheat the oven to 400°F. Combine eggs, evaporated milk or regular milk, powdered mustard, salt, pepper, and Tabasco in a large bowl and mix well. Add the cooked pasta to this mixture and transfer it to a baking dish. You can add gluten-free breadcrumbs to the top for an extra crunchy texture. Bake for about 15 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent overbrowning.
With these gluten-free macaroni and cheese recipes, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal without worrying about gluten intolerance.
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Macaroni and cheese with eggs instead of flour
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food enjoyed by many. While the traditional recipe calls for flour to thicken the sauce, some people prefer to use eggs as a substitute. This can be a great option for those who are sensitive to gluten or simply looking for a different texture and flavour.
The process of making macaroni and cheese with eggs instead of flour is quite simple. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Start by boiling the macaroni in a large pot of salted water until it is barely cooked, which should take around 5 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together milk and eggs. You can also add butter to this mixture. Some people prefer to temper the eggs by slowly adding warm milk before combining it with the rest of the milk, which helps prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Mixture
Place the par-boiled macaroni in a baking dish. Pour the egg and milk mixture over the macaroni, stirring until well combined. You can also add grated cheese to this mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake the macaroni and cheese in a preheated oven until the top is browned, which should take around 30 to 40 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Using eggs instead of flour in macaroni and cheese creates a custardy consistency that some people prefer. It also allows the dish to hold together well when sliced, similar to a pie. However, it's important to note that the egg flavour can be strong and may detract from the saltiness of the dish.
Some people also choose to use whole wheat macaroni and flour for a healthier alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese. This option offers a different texture and flavour while still providing a quick and easy meal.
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Reheating macaroni and cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish made with wheat macaroni and cheese sauce. It can be reheated in various ways, including in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Here are some detailed instructions on how to reheat macaroni and cheese to retain its original taste and texture as much as possible.
Microwave:
For individual servings or small amounts of macaroni and cheese, the microwave is a convenient option. Start by stirring in one tablespoon of milk for every cup of macaroni and cheese to add moisture back into the dish. Spread the mixture in a shallow, microwave-safe bowl, and cover it with a microwave-safe plate or a damp paper towel. Microwave at 50% power for one minute, then stir and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. You can add a little butter and shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Stovetop:
The stovetop method is recommended for reheating one to a few servings of macaroni and cheese. Break up any large clumps of macaroni and cheese and place them in a saucepan. Add one tablespoon of milk for every cup of macaroni and cheese, and heat over medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon. Once it reaches your desired temperature, add a touch of butter and extra cheese to finish.
Oven:
The oven method is ideal for reheating large batches of macaroni and cheese or baked versions with a crispy topping. Place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, breaking up any clumps. If your dish has a crispy topping, place it directly in the baking dish, and drizzle milk down the sides. If possible, reserve the crispy topping separately and add it later. Cover the baking dish with an oven-safe lid or aluminium foil and bake at 350°F (or 180°C) until warmed through, checking after 20 minutes. For a crispy top, uncover the dish, sprinkle the reserved topping, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. You can add butter and shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Storage:
To ensure your macaroni and cheese reheats well, proper storage is essential. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent drying out or absorbing other smells. If you have a large batch, consider freezing it for longer-term storage.
Freezing:
Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool completely before sealing it in a freezer container or airtight bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating from Frozen:
You can reheat frozen macaroni and cheese directly in the oven without thawing. Bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it from frozen in the microwave at 50% power, stirring at regular intervals.
Tips:
- Avoid overheating, as it can cause the fats to separate, resulting in a greasy texture.
- For oven-baked macaroni and cheese, reheat it in the oven to maintain the original cooking method.
- If you prefer a wetter consistency, use the microwave, and for a crispy layer on top, use the oven.
- To enhance the flavour and texture, add extra cheese, butter, or breadcrumbs before reheating.
By following these instructions, you can enjoy your leftover macaroni and cheese with minimal loss of taste and texture.
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Macaroni and cheese with vegetables
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish that typically contains wheat in the form of pasta. However, it is possible to make macaroni and cheese with vegetables, providing a nutritious and delicious meal. This dish is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet or your family's diet, especially for toddlers, kids, and picky eaters. Here is a guide on how to make macaroni and cheese with vegetables:
Ingredients:
- Macaroni or any short, tubular pasta shape
- Vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, onions, zucchini, sweet potatoes, or peas
- Cheese, preferably sharp cheddar, but you can also use cream cheese, gouda, goat cheese, or parmesan
- Milk
- Butter
- Flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- Spices and seasonings, such as salt, pepper, mustard powder, cayenne, or paprika
- Chicken or vegetable broth (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, adding the vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse with cool water.
- Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour if using and whisk until golden brown.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and broth, if using, and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add the grated or shredded cheese to the sauce and stir until melted. You can also blend steamed vegetables, such as cauliflower and sweet potato, with the milk before adding it to the sauce for a hidden veggie option.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or seasonings.
- Toss the cooked pasta and vegetables with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese if desired.
- Bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
You can also experiment with different vegetables and types of cheese to find your favorite combination. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, and it freezes well, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy days.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, macaroni and cheese can contain wheat. Many recipes for macaroni and cheese use whole-wheat pasta. However, there are also gluten-free options available.
There are many recipes for whole-wheat macaroni and cheese. Some recipes include additional ingredients such as broccoli, butter, and whole milk.
Gluten-free macaroni and cheese recipes typically use gluten-free pasta and flour. Some recipes also include almond flour or cassava flour.
