Baked Macaroni and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you're anything like us, you can't get enough of Millie Peartree's recipes. And if you haven't tried her baked macaroni and cheese yet, what are you waiting for? This classic comfort food is a staple in many American households, and for good reason.

How to Store Baked Mac and Cheese

One of the best things about baked mac and cheese is that it keeps well in the refrigerator. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it for up to 5 days. But be warned: once you've tasted this dish, you'll want to make it again and again.

What Else Can You Serve with Baked Macaroni and Cheese?

While baked mac and cheese is always the star of the show, there are a few other mains that can hold their own against its creamy goodness. Try pairing it with oven-baked BBQ chicken or a juicy rib-eye steak for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese

If you want to ensure your baked mac and cheese turns out perfectly, there are a few key steps to follow. First, let it cool! Allowing the mac and cheese to cool will help the custard set and prevent scrambled eggs when you add the beaten eggs.

Next, don't skip the eggs. Whisking together eggs and milk and pouring them over the macaroni will make your dish extra creamy and decadent. And finally, be sure to layer it like a lasagna. Millie Peartree's secret ingredient? An entire layer of pure cheese between two layers of (already cheesy) macaroni.

The History of Baked Macaroni and Cheese

But baked macaroni and cheese isn't just a tasty side dish - it also has a rich history. The dish has its roots in Europe, but the version Americans are familiar with today can be attributed to James Hemings, President Thomas Jefferson's highly skilled enslaved chef.

In fact, word of the dish spread like wildfire through the enslaved community, creating a staple for the African-American and southern dinner table. Today, baked macaroni and cheese is a quintessential southern side dish that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Get Creative with Your Noodles

One of the best things about baked macaroni and cheese is that you can customize it to your taste. Use whatever noodles you have on hand, or try a fun new pasta shape. And if you don't like sharp cheese, feel free to use mild or any other cheese you prefer.

Baked macaroni and cheese is more than just a comfort food - it's a beloved American tradition. With its rich history and creamy goodness, it's no wonder why this dish remains a staple in many households today. So go ahead, give Millie Peartree's recipe a try, and discover why baked macaroni and cheese is truly the ultimate comfort food.

Baked macaroni and cheese roux