If you love the comforting, cheesy goodness of classic macaroni cheese but crave some variety, then you are in for a treat with the Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe. This versatile and delicious dish takes a simple macaroni cheese base and transforms it into three exciting and utterly satisfying versions: crispy prosciutto cups topped with crunchy onions, a gooey Croque Monsieur sandwich, and irresistible mozzarella-stuffed, golden-fried macaroni balls. Whether you’re serving dinner for the family or impressing guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds and thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, but each item plays a key role in creating that rich, creamy, and flavorful macaroni cheese goodness. From the sharpness of mature cheddar to the creaminess of béchamel sauce, every component comes together beautifully.
- Macaroni Pasta: 300g – The perfect pasta shape to hold all that luxurious cheese sauce.
- Mature Cheddar: 250g, grated – Provides that classic sharp and tangy flavor.
- Parmesan: 50g, grated – Adds a nutty depth and extra umami zing.
- Unsalted Butter: 30g – The base for a silky smooth béchamel sauce.
- Plain Flour: 45g – Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Whole Milk: 500ml – Keeps the sauce rich and velvety.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp – A subtle kick that enhances the cheese flavors.
- Sea Salt and Pepper: To taste – Essential for balancing and brightening every bite.
- Prosciutto: 4 slices – For those crispy, salty cups that hold delicious macaroni cheese portions.
- Sourdough Bread: 2 slices – The base for the Croque Monsieur sandwich, adding crunch and flavor.
- Ham: 2 slices – A savory, meaty layer for the Croque Monsieur.
- Crispy Onions: For topping prosciutto cups – Adds crunch and a burst of onion flavor.
- Fresh Chives: For garnish – Herbs brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For stuffing in macaroni cheese balls – Melts inside to create irresistible gooey centers.
- Egg, Flour, Breadcrumbs: For breading macaroni cheese balls – Gives a crunchy outer crust.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying macaroni cheese balls – Ensures crispy, golden exterior.
How to Make Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This is key because you want a bit of bite to your pasta so it holds up against the creamy sauce and all the delicious add-ons we’ll be making later. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the plain flour and whisk it around for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in half of the whole milk while whisking vigorously to avoid any lumps forming. Then, add the remaining milk gradually, continuing to whisk until you have a perfectly smooth and creamy sauce base.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Now, stir in the grated mature cheddar and Parmesan, letting them melt smoothly into your béchamel. Add the Dijon mustard for that subtle zing and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to bring all the flavors alive. This cheese sauce is the heart and soul of your Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe, so make sure it’s silky, rich, and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Gently fold your cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every bit of pasta is luxuriously coated. This creamy cheesy mixture is your versatile filling, ready to be transformed into the three sensational dishes that make this recipe truly special.
Step 5: Prepare Macaroni Cheese Prosciutto Cups
Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius (gas mark 5). Grease a muffin tin and line each cup with two slices of prosciutto, pressing them in to form cups. Pop them in the oven for about 5 minutes until the prosciutto crisps up slightly, giving a delightful salty shell. Spoon in your macaroni cheese mixture and sprinkle with crispy fried onions for that fantastic crunch. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Step 6: Make Macaroni Cheese Croque Monsieur
Spread a generous spoonful of macaroni cheese on one slice of sourdough bread. Layer with slices of ham and a dab of Dijon mustard. Top with the second slice of bread, then spoon some béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle with extra grated cheddar. Air fry the sandwich at 200 degrees Celsius for about 5 minutes until golden, bubbly, and irresistibly crispy. This twist on a French classic is the perfect way to enjoy your macaroni cheese.
Step 7: Mozzarella Stuffed Macaroni Cheese Balls
Take scoopfuls of your macaroni cheese mixture and form even-sized balls. At the center of each ball, nestle a small piece of mozzarella cheese to create a molten cheesy core. Freeze the balls for 2 to 3 hours until firm. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Coat each ball thoroughly in flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat vegetable oil to 180 degrees Celsius in a deep pan, then fry the balls for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and crispy on the outside, while gooey and full of flavor inside.
How to Serve Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chives, crispy onions, or even a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can elevate your macaroni cheese creations. These garnishes add not only a pop of color but also enhance texture and flavor contrasts that keep every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair your macaroni cheese dishes with simple sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or some garlicky sautéed greens. These provide freshness and balance to the rich and cheesy main star.
Creative Ways to Present
Present the prosciutto cups on a wooden board with scattered chives and a bowl of extra crispy onions. For the Croque Monsieur, slice in half on the diagonal to show off gooey fillings and serve with a tiny side of pickles. Stack the mozzarella balls in a bowl with toothpicks for fun, edible finger food that’s perfect for parties or casual family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheesy sauce thickens as it cools, so expect a firmer texture that can easily be revived with gentle reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the macaroni cheese base or the prepared balls before frying. Wrap portioned macaroni cheese tightly or place the balls in a single layer on a tray, freeze until set, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this recipe anytime you crave comfort food.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the macaroni cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. For the crispy components like prosciutto cups or Croque Monsieur, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their golden texture, ensuring every bite tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional and perfect for holding the cheese sauce, small pasta shapes like shells or penne also work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times as needed to maintain that al dente bite.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the prosciutto and ham. The macaroni cheese balls and the base sauce remain delicious and satisfying all on their own or topped with vegetarian-friendly toppings.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the béchamel, and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. This recipe adapts well, ensuring everyone can enjoy the cheesy goodness without compromise.
Can I bake the macaroni cheese instead of frying the balls?
Yes! For a lighter option, place the breaded macaroni cheese balls on a baking sheet and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes or until golden, turning halfway for even crispiness. They won’t be as crunchy as fried but are still delicious.
What cheese combinations work best?
Mature cheddar and Parmesan provide a fantastic flavor base, but feel free to experiment with gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp pecorino to tailor the taste to your preference. Just keep the cheeses that melt well for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about transforming a beloved classic like macaroni cheese into three unique, mouthwatering dishes all from one simple base. The Macaroni Cheese: One Recipe, Three Ways Recipe not only brings comforting childhood memories but also adds new layers of creativity and flavor that will delight your family or guests. Give it a try and watch how this humble dish can steal the show at your table!
