Delia Smith Macaroni Cheese

Delia Smith’s Macaroni Cheese is made with macaroni, courgettes, bacon, Cheddar cheese, and double cream. This tasty macaroni cheese recipe creates a delicious dinner that takes about 25 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 4 people.

Delia Smith Macaroni Cheese Ingredients

For the Macaroni:

• 2-3 oz (50-75 g) macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 oz (110 g) courgettes, sliced with their skins on (not too thinly)
• 2 oz (50 g) bacon, chopped
• Salt

For the Sauce:

• ½ oz (10 g) butter
• ½ oz (10 g) flour
• 5 fl oz (150 ml) milk
• 1½ oz (40 g) grated Cheddar cheese
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 fl oz (25 ml) double cream
• Salt and freshly milled black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 level tablespoon Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 tomato, sliced

How To Make Delia Smith Macaroni Cheese

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a panful of water to the boil. Add the macaroni, salt, and a few drops of oil. Cook for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare Courgettes and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook courgettes and bacon until softened and colored.
3. Make the Sauce: Melt butter in a separate pan. Stir in flour, then gradually add milk, stirring until smooth. Cook gently for 4-5 minutes, then stir in grated cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cream.
4. Combine Ingredients: Drain macaroni and return it to the saucepan. Add courgettes and bacon. Pour in the sauce and stir over gentle heat until reheated.
5. Assemble and Grill: Transfer the mixture to a gratin dish. Mix Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle over the top. Add a pinch of cayenne and arrange tomato slices. Place under the grill until the top is browned.

Recipe Tips

• Cook the macaroni until al dente – This ensures it stays firm and doesn’t become mushy when baked.
• Preheat the grill – Ensure it’s hot before placing the dish under it to achieve a crispy top.
• Stir the sauce continuously – This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Use freshly grated nutmeg – It adds a more intense and aromatic flavor than pre-ground nutmeg.
• Drain the macaroni well – Excess water can make the dish watery, so be sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing with the sauce.

What To Serve With Macaroni Cheese?

This creamy macaroni cheese pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a side of fruit. It can also be served alongside coleslaw, roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or a light soup for a delicious dinner.

How To Store Leftovers Macaroni Cheese?

• Refrigerate: Let the leftover macaroni cheese cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Allow the macaroni cheese to cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the fridge overnight before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftovers Macaroni Cheese?

• In The Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the macaroni cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.
• In The Microwave: Transfer the macaroni cheese to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• On The Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until hot. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Delia Smith Macaroni Cheese Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 200 grams)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 15g

Try More Delia Smith Recipes:

• Delia Smith Sultana Scones
• Delia Smith Lemon Surprise Pudding
• Delia Smith Chocolate Bread And Butter Pudding
• Delia Smith Courgette Soup