haitian mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
haitian mac and cheese recipe
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The Best haitian mac and cheese recipe

Creamy Haitian Mac and Cheese

Creamy Haitian Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 1440 votes

A rich and flavorful mac and cheese made with evaporated milk, sharp cheddar, and a touch of heat from Scotch bonnet pepper. This Caribbean twist on a classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Spice and Finish

1 Scotch bonnet pepper, stemmed, seeded, and minced (optional, for heat)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3In a large saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
4Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and whole milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
5Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6If using, stir in the minced Scotch bonnet pepper. Let the sauce cool for 5 minutes.
7In a small bowl, beat the eggs. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the warm cheese sauce to the eggs while whisking constantly to temper them. Then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cheese sauce and stir well.
8Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is coated.
9Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
10Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a milder version, omit the Scotch bonnet pepper or use a pinch of cayenne pepper instead. You can also add cooked chicken or vegetables like broccoli for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Haitian Mac and Cheese Works

This Haitian mac and cheese recipe is one of those dishes that always works for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. It brings a unique warmth and depth of flavor that my whole family looks forward to, and it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple green salad. I hope you give it a try and see how it can become a new favorite at your table too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Haitian Mac and Cheese

1. Can I make this Haitian mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

2. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is the most common choice for its strong flavor. You can also use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack or Gouda for a creamier texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

3. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

Simply leave out the Scotch bonnet pepper entirely. The recipe still has plenty of flavor from the cheese and spices. If you want a tiny bit of warmth without the heat, use a pinch of smoked paprika instead.

4. Is evaporated milk necessary or can I use something else?

Evaporated milk gives the sauce a rich, creamy consistency that is key to this dish. You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. Do not use sweetened condensed milk as it will make the dish too sweet.

5. Can I freeze leftover Haitian mac and cheese?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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