National mac and cheese day ultimate guide: find the perfect mac for your cravings

Yes! Mark your calendars for July 14th, because it’s National Mac and Cheese Day. This beloved holiday is a testament to the irresistible allure of this comforting and versatile dish.

A Brief History of Mac and Cheese

The origins of mac and cheese are shrouded in culinary mystery. Some believe it originated in Italy, where it’s known as “maccheroni al formaggio.” Others trace its roots to medieval England, where a similar dish called “macaroni cheese” was popular.

The Perfect Mac and Cheese Recipe

While there are countless variations, the classic mac and cheese recipe is a timeless delight. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
9. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Creative Mac and Cheese Variations

The classic recipe is just the starting point for endless variations. Here are some ideas:

• Lobster Mac and Cheese: Add chunks of cooked lobster to the cheese sauce.
• Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Stir in buffalo sauce and crispy chicken pieces.
• Broccoli Mac and Cheese: Add steamed broccoli florets to the macaroni mixture.
• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Sprinkle crispy bacon over the top before baking.
• Truffle Mac and Cheese: Infuse the cheese sauce with truffle oil for a luxurious touch.

Mac and Cheese Pairings

Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments:

• Salad: A fresh side salad adds a light and refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese.
• Soup: A creamy tomato soup or a hearty beef stew complements the cheesiness perfectly.
• Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread provides a perfect vehicle for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Wine: A light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with mac and cheese.
• Beer: A cold beer, such as an amber ale or pale ale, is a refreshing accompaniment.

Mac and Cheese Trivia

Did you know?

• The average American eats about 5 pounds of mac and cheese per year.
• The largest mac and cheese ever made weighed over 5,000 pounds.
• Mac and cheese is the most popular comfort food in the United States.
• In 2016, Kraft launched a limited-edition mac and cheese flavor called “Mac and Cheese with Goldfish.”

Celebrating National Mac and Cheese Day

There are countless ways to celebrate National Mac and Cheese Day:

• Host a mac and cheese party with friends and family.
• Visit your favorite restaurant for a special mac and cheese dish.
• Experiment with new and creative mac and cheese recipes.
• Share your mac and cheese creations on social media with the hashtag #NationalMacAndCheeseDay.

Top Questions Asked

• When is National Mac and Cheese Day?

July 14th

• What is the classic mac and cheese recipe?

See the recipe provided above.

• What are some creative mac and cheese variations?

Lobster, buffalo, broccoli, bacon, truffle

• What are good pairings for mac and cheese?

Salad, soup, bread, wine, beer

• What is the average amount of mac and cheese consumed per year in the US?

5 pounds

• What is the largest mac and cheese ever made?

Over 5,000 pounds

• What is the most popular comfort food in the US?

Mac and cheese

• What is a unique mac and cheese flavor that Kraft launched in 2016?