Patrick Oconnell
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food for many, and while the dish is delicious on its own, adding seasonings and spices can take it to the next level. The type of seasonings and spices you use can be tailored to your personal preference, but some common options include salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different combinations of spices, such as Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning, or even try adding in proteins like cubed ham or crumbled bacon. The versatility of macaroni and cheese allows you to be creative and find the perfect blend of seasonings that suits your taste buds.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Seasoned Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | |
| Cayenne Pepper | |
| Ground Thyme | |
| Black Pepper | |
| Garlic Powder | |
| Mustard Powder | |
| Creole Seasoning | |
| Turmeric | |
| Caramelized Onions |
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What You'll Learn
Salt and pepper
After draining the cooked macaroni, the next step is to make the cheese sauce. This typically involves creating a roux with butter and flour, to which milk is gradually added to form a smooth sauce. At this stage, salt and pepper can be added to taste. It is important to season the sauce adequately, as undersalting the dish can negatively impact the flavour. The type of pepper used is also important, with some preferring freshly ground pepper, while others opt for the powdered variety specifically for macaroni and cheese.
The amount of salt added to the sauce will depend on the type of cheese used, as some cheeses are saltier than others. For example, mature cheddar or mozzarella can be used for flavour and texture, respectively, and both have different salt contents that will influence the overall seasoning of the dish. Additionally, other ingredients in the sauce, such as sour cream, can also affect the saltiness of the dish. Therefore, it is crucial to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning accordingly before adding the cooked macaroni.
Finally, the seasoned sauce is combined with the macaroni, and the dish is baked. The baking process can also impact the overall seasoning, as the dish may reduce slightly, concentrating the flavours. Therefore, it is important to taste the macaroni and cheese after baking to ensure the seasoning is just right.
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Cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder
Garlic powder is another great seasoning to add to mac and cheese. It is a secret ingredient that can amplify the cheese's cheesiness, making it taste more robust. It is a staple in many stovetop mac and cheese recipes, often used with white pepper.
When making macaroni and cheese, it is important to remember that the cheese imparts quite a bit of salt to the mix, so be careful not to undersalt the dish. You can start with a low amount of salt and work your way up, tasting as you go. You can also add black pepper, but some recipes recommend using pre-ground pepper instead of freshly ground for a better taste.
Some other seasonings that are often used in mac and cheese include mustard, cumin, onion powder, and thyme. You can also add ingredients like cubed ham, crumbled bacon, crab meat, or lobster for some extra flavour.
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Mustard powder
Some recipes suggest using a teaspoon of mustard powder in the roux, along with salt and pepper, to enhance the flavour of the cheese. Others recommend using dry mustard powder to add a "special something" to the dish. It is important not to add too much mustard powder, as it may overpower the other flavours in the dish.
One recipe suggests using a combination of mustard powder, milk, Velveeta cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to create a creamy and tangy sauce for the macaroni and cheese. Another recipe includes onion powder, hot sauce, and milk in addition to mustard powder to create a full-flavoured sauce.
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Creole seasoning
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food enjoyed by many. While the traditional recipe is delicious, some people like to spice things up by adding Creole seasoning. Creole seasoning can be used to make mac and cheese more savory, spicy, and flavorful.
When making Creole macaroni and cheese, the process usually starts with cooking the macaroni until it is al dente. A roux is then prepared by melting butter and whisking in flour until it forms a smooth, white mixture. This roux is the base for the cheese sauce. Onion, celery, and sometimes bell peppers are sautéed and added to the roux, along with milk, to create a creamy sauce.
The signature Creole flavor comes from adding Creole seasoning to this sauce, along with a combination of cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss cheese, or jalapeno Velveeta for a spicy kick. The cooked macaroni is then mixed with the sauce, and the dish is baked in the oven until melted and bubbly.
Some people like to add breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy texture. Overall, Creole macaroni and cheese is a flavorful and spicy take on the traditional dish, offering a unique blend of spices and cheeses that is sure to satisfy any craving.
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Tomato paste
Seasoning Macaroni and Cheese with Tomato Paste
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice (elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or similar)
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic
- Flour
- Milk
- Tomato paste
- Diced tomatoes
- Oregano
- Parsley (optional)
- Grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, gouda, Monterey Jack, or provolone)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions, drain, and set aside. In a separate pan, melt the butter and cook the onion and garlic until lightly browned. Add the flour and stir to create a roux. Whisk in the milk and stir until the mixture thickens. At this point, you can add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and dried herbs (oregano and parsley). Stir until the tomatoes are warmed through.
Now, gradually stir in your grated cheese. You can use a single variety or a combination of cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
You can experiment with different ingredients to customise your macaroni and cheese:
- Green bell peppers, green onions, or roasted poblanos for extra flavour and colour.
- Breadcrumbs on top for a crispy texture.
- Creole seasoning or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Caramelised onions for a sweet and savoury twist.
- Meat such as cubed ham, crumbled bacon, or chicken.
Tips
- If you like your macaroni and cheese extra saucy, reduce the amount of pasta and increase the quantity of sauce ingredients.
- If you prefer a baked macaroni and cheese, pour the mixture into a baking dish, top with extra cheese and/or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
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Frequently asked questions
You can add salt, pepper, mustard powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and turmeric.
You should add about 1/2 teaspoon of salt to your macaroni and cheese. Be careful not to undersalt the dish, as salt enhances the flavour. However, if you are sensitive to salt, start with a small amount and work your way up.
You can use kosher salt as it has larger, lighter, and quicker-dissolving grains than table salt, making it easier to season and taste as you go.
You should add the seasonings to your macaroni and cheese after making the roux and before adding the cheese.
Yes, you can add spices such as Everything Bagel spice or a packet of taco seasoning to boxed macaroni and cheese.
