Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Craving comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and effortlessly satisfying?

This Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese ticks all the right boxes. It’s a timeless dish with rich flavor, soft pasta, and a golden baked top—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. True to Mary Berry’s signature style, it’s simple to prepare yet full of homemade charm and classic taste.

What is Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese?

Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese is a classic British comfort dish made with cooked macaroni pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce, then baked until golden. It combines a velvety white sauce (béchamel) with strong cheese—typically cheddar—for a hearty, oven-finished meal that’s deeply satisfying and easy to adapt.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Margarita
• Hairy Bikers Macaroni Cheese
• Jamie Oliver Guacamole
• Mary Berry Beef Stew 

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple, no-fuss ingredients – Easy to find and budget-friendly
• Rich and creamy texture – A perfect balance of sauce and pasta
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food – Loved by kids and adults alike
• Freezer-friendly – Ideal for prepping ahead
• Quick and reliable – Minimal cooking steps and clear results
• Customizable – Add-ins like bacon, tomatoes, or herbs work well

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• 300g (10 oz) macaroni pasta
• 50g (3.5 tbsp) butter
• 50g (1/3 cup) plain flour
• 600ml (2½ cups) milk – Whole milk is preferred
• 1 tsp English mustard (optional)
• 150g (1½ cups) mature cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Extra cheese or breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk and wooden spoon
• Baking dish (medium-sized)
• Cheese grater
• Oven

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

• Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil.
• Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente (slightly firm), then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour to make a smooth roux, cooking it for 1–2 minutes.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened and smooth.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning

• Remove the sauce from the heat.
• Stir in the grated cheese and mustard (if using), then season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
• Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
• Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.
• Serve hot, garnished with herbs or a side salad if preferred.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Green side salad – Adds a crisp, fresh contrast
• Garlic bread – Complements the creamy texture
• Roasted tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity
• Steamed broccoli or peas – Boosts the meal’s nutrition
• Crispy bacon bits – Sprinkle on top for added crunch
• Grilled sausages or chicken – Turn it into a fuller meal
• Caramelized onions – Stir in or serve on the side

Expert Tips for Making the Best Macaroni Cheese

• Use mature cheddar – For a richer, deeper flavor
• Cook pasta slightly under – It continues cooking in the oven
• Add mustard – Enhances the cheese taste without overpowering
• Whisk sauce constantly – To avoid lumps in the roux
• Use whole milk – It gives the creamiest sauce
• Top with breadcrumbs and cheese – For that classic crunchy finish
• Let it sit a few minutes after baking – Helps the sauce thicken before serving

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Add cooked bacon or ham – For a smoky touch
• Stir in cooked leeks or spinach – To include greens
• Use different cheeses – Like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Red Leicester
• Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes
• Include diced tomatoes – For added freshness
• Top with crushed crackers – For texture and flavor
• Swap in gluten-free pasta – For dietary needs

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Let cool completely before storing – Avoids condensation
• Use an airtight container – Keeps it fresh
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days – Reheat when ready to serve
• Label and date – Especially if freezing
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months – Wrap tightly in foil or use freezer-safe containers

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese

• Oven: Reheat covered at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between rounds
• Add a splash of milk before reheating – Helps loosen the sauce
• Avoid high heat – Prevents drying out or overcooking
• Sprinkle with fresh cheese before baking again – For a melty top

How Can I Make Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese Healthier?

• Use reduced-fat cheese and milk – Lightens the calorie load
• Add more vegetables – Like peas, broccoli, or spinach
• Use whole-wheat or legume pasta – Adds fiber
• Reduce the cheese slightly – The sauce will still be creamy
• Limit salt – Use herbs and mustard for flavor
• Skip the breadcrumbs or oil-heavy toppings – Save on extra fats
• Serve smaller portions with a salad – Balanced and satisfying

Nutrition Value (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

FAQs

How do you keep macaroni cheese from drying out in the oven?

To prevent drying out, make sure your sauce is slightly runny before baking. Cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to brown the top.

Should I rinse the pasta before mixing it with cheese sauce?

No, avoid rinsing the pasta. The starch on the surface helps the cheese sauce cling better, creating a creamier, more cohesive dish.

Can you make Mary Berry macaroni cheese in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Why is my cheese sauce lumpy?

Lumpy sauce usually happens if flour isn’t fully incorporated or if milk is added too quickly. Always whisk constantly and add milk gradually to ensure a smooth béchamel.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese delivers comfort in every creamy, golden bite. It’s easy to make, endlessly flexible, and brings a homemade warmth that everyone will love.

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