Cornish Macaroni Bake

Ingredients

In this Cornish adaptation of the Dutch Macaroni, we incorporate Cornish clotted cream and cheddar cheese to add a rich and indulgent flavor. The addition of mustard gives the dish a tangy kick, which is a characteristic flavor in Cornish cuisine. The dish is also baked to create a golden crust on top, adding a satisfying crunch to the creamy macaroni. We alse have the original recipe for Dutch Macaroni, so you can check it out.

• 250g (9 oz) macaroni pasta 250g (9 oz) macaroni pasta
• 200g (7 oz) Cornish clotted cream 200g (7 oz) Cornish clotted cream
• 150g (5.3 oz) cheddar cheese, grated 150g (5.3 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon mustard 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the Cornish clotted cream, grated cheddar cheese, and mustard to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and mix well, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornish clotted cream — Make sure to use authentic Cornish clotted cream for its rich and creamy texture. If unavailable, you can substitute with heavy cream, although the flavor may differ slightly.
• Cheddar cheese — Opt for a mature or extra mature cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add cooked bacon or diced ham to the macaroni mixture before baking.
• Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the macaroni before baking for an extra crispy crust.
• Serve the Cornish Macaroni Bake with a side of fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Cornish Yarg or Cornish Gouda, to add unique flavors to the dish.

Serving advice

Serve the Cornish Macaroni Bake hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Cornish Macaroni Bake in individual serving dishes or in a large baking dish. The golden crust on top should be visible, enticing your guests with its crispy texture. Sprinkle some additional grated cheddar cheese and parsley on top for an extra touch of elegance.