Patrick Oconnell
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, but adding spices can elevate the dish. Some popular spices and seasonings include cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powder, dry mustard, black pepper, nutmeg, and Creole seasoning. Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and marjoram can also add flavour to the dish. For a unique twist, some people add turmeric or peri peri sauce to their macaroni and cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spices | Cayenne pepper, paprika, mustard powder, ground thyme, black pepper, turmeric, peri peri sauce, Creole seasoning, Everything Bagel spice, taco seasoning |
| Herbs | Parsley |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Cayenne pepper, paprika, and mustard powder
Mustard powder is another spice that can be added to the cheese sauce in macaroni and cheese. It has a strong, sharp flavour that can enhance the overall taste of the dish. When combined with other ingredients such as butter, flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, milk, and cheese, mustard powder contributes to a full-flavoured sauce. The sauce can then be poured over cooked macaroni and baked to create a creamy and spicy macaroni and cheese.
The amount of cayenne pepper, paprika, and mustard powder added to macaroni and cheese can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. For those who enjoy spicier dishes, increasing the amount of cayenne pepper and paprika can provide a more intense kick. On the other hand, those who prefer a milder flavour can reduce the quantities of these spices or omit them altogether.
In addition to cayenne pepper, paprika, and mustard powder, other spices and ingredients can be used to enhance the flavour of macaroni and cheese. Black pepper, ground thyme, and hot sauce are commonly used to add extra spice and warmth to the dish. The type and amount of cheese used can also affect the flavour profile, with options such as sharp cheddar, white cheddar, gouda, smoked gouda, and pepper jack cheese providing varying levels of sharpness and creaminess.
When making macaroni and cheese, it is important to remember that the dish requires ample salt to bring out the flavours of the other ingredients. Additionally, the pasta should be undercooked slightly during the boiling phase to prevent it from becoming overcooked and mushy after being baked in the oven. By experimenting with different combinations of spices, cheeses, and ingredients, individuals can create their own unique versions of this classic comfort food.
Cheese on Shrimp Tacos: A Culinary Adventure
You may want to see also
Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning
Using Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning in Macaroni and Cheese
Tony Chachere's provides a recipe for Creole Mac and Cheese on its website, which involves adding the original Creole seasoning to a mixture of dry mustard, minced garlic, cheese, and butter. The recipe also includes a topping made from cheese, butter, panko breadcrumbs, dried parsley, and green onions, which is sprinkled on top of the macaroni before baking.
Another recipe on the Tony Chachere's website is for Cajun Mac and Cheese, which uses the brand's No Salt Seasoning Blend. This recipe includes Andouille sausage, green onions, butter, eggs, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. The No Salt Seasoning Blend is added directly to the cooked macaroni, along with the butter, before the other ingredients are mixed in.
Customisation
As with any recipe, you can customise the dish to your liking. You might want to try adding different types of cheese, such as mozzarella for texture, or substituting the pasta for other small shapes. You could also experiment with adding extra ingredients, such as wilted spinach, roasted tomatoes, or chicken.
Cheesy Potato Soup: Should You Add Cheese?
You may want to see also
Jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and veggies
Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that can be spiced up in many ways. Here are some ideas for adding jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and veggies to your mac and cheese:
Jalapeños
Jalapeños are a great way to add spice and heat to your mac and cheese. You can adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños, leaving the seeds in or removing them, or even adding a Serrano pepper for an extra kick. If you prefer a milder flavour, you can use pickled (jarred) jalapeños, which are usually milder than fresh ones. You can also try baking your mac and cheese with a panko topping to get that "jalapeño popper" flavour and texture.
Pepper Jack Cheese
Pepper jack cheese is an excellent addition to mac and cheese if you're looking for a spicy kick. It pairs well with other cheeses like cream cheese, sharp cheddar and mozzarella or American cheese. Grating your own cheese is recommended for the best melting results. You can also add an egg to your sauce for a creamier texture.
Veggies
Adding vegetables to your mac and cheese is a great way to make it a complete one-dish meal. You can roast vegetables like broccoli and butternut squash to add a nice caramelized flavour to the dish. Other options include roughly chopped greens such as kale, chard, spinach, or a power greens mix. You can also add cooked asparagus or steamed broccoli on top of your mac and cheese.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and veggies to find your favourite flavour profile. Remember, mac and cheese is a versatile dish, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Cheese or Peanut Butter: Which Catches the Mouse?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Salt and black pepper
Salt is added to the water in which the macaroni is cooked. It is important to ensure that the water is generously salted, as this prevents the macaroni from being undersalted. Undercooking the macaroni by a few minutes is also recommended, as the pasta continues to cook in the oven.
Black pepper, specifically the powdered variety, is added to the sauce. Freshly ground pepper is not recommended for this dish. The black pepper is added to the sauce along with other spices such as mustard powder, cayenne, and paprika.
The amount of black pepper and salt added to the dish can be adjusted to personal preference. Some recipes recommend increasing the amount of spice added, especially if a spicier macaroni and cheese is desired.
In addition to salt and black pepper, other spices and seasonings can be added to macaroni and cheese to enhance its flavour. These include garlic and onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, and Creole seasoning blends.
Best Cheeses to Pair with Broccoli
You may want to see also
Ground thyme, garlic, and onion powder
Spicing up Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, and while it's delicious on its own, adding spices can take it to the next level. A popular spice blend to add to macaroni and cheese is Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning, which can be found in most grocery stores in the United States. However, if you're looking for something more specific, ground thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder can be a great combination to enhance the flavour of your mac and cheese.
Ground Thyme
Thyme is an aromatic herb with a slightly woody and earthy flavour. When used in macaroni and cheese, it adds a subtle, yet distinctive taste that complements the creaminess of the dish. Thyme is a versatile herb that works well with other spices and herbs, so feel free to experiment with additional seasonings.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a common ingredient in macaroni and cheese recipes, adding a savoury kick to the dish. It provides a strong garlic flavour without the texture of fresh garlic, ensuring the macaroni and cheese maintains its creamy consistency. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can adjust the amount of garlic powder added to suit your preference.
Onion Powder
Onion powder is another popular choice for macaroni and cheese as it provides the flavour of onions without the moisture or texture of fresh onions. This is especially beneficial if you're looking for a smoother, less chunky sauce. Onion powder adds a savoury and slightly sweet taste to the dish, enhancing the overall flavour profile.
Combining the Spices
When using ground thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder in your macaroni and cheese, it's important to find the right balance. Start with a small amount of each spice and adjust to your taste preferences. Remember that you can always add more, but it's difficult to reduce the spiciness if you've added too much. Additionally, consider adding other complementary spices, such as ground mustard or paprika, to create a more complex flavour profile.
Customisation
The beauty of macaroni and cheese is its versatility. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, vegetables, or meats to create your ultimate comfort food. Some popular add-ins include bacon, spinach, broccoli, and tomatoes. You can also try different types of pasta shapes to find your favourite texture and appearance.
So, the next time you're craving macaroni and cheese, don't be afraid to spice things up! With ground thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder as your base, you can create a flavourful and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Cheese and Potato Salad: A Delicious Combination?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Paprika, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, black pepper, and garlic and onion powder are all commonly used spices in macaroni and cheese.
You can add turmeric, or a spice blend like Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning or gomashio. You can also add herbs like parsley.
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but shells, penne, or rotini are also popular.
Cheddar is the most popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, gouda, gruyere, parmesan, or pepper jack.
You can add vegetables like broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, or kale, or meat like chicken. You can also top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
