Haitian Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 15 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
407 kcal
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Course
Others
Haitian Mac and Cheese
Description
The recipe begins by sautéing finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic in melted butter until softened and fragrant. Meanwhile, rigatoni pasta is cooked to the desired firmness. After draining, the pasta is returned to the pot and combined over gentle heat with the cooked vegetables, evaporated milk, mayonnaise, shredded gouda, and grated Parmesan. This mixture melts the cheese and blends flavors into a creamy coating around the pasta.
The use of evaporated milk and mayonnaise adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce, while the mix of gouda and Parmesan provides a balance of mild, smoky, and sharp cheese notes. The combination of aromatic sautéed vegetables contributes subtle sweetness and depth, enhancing the casserole's taste and complexity. The dish is transferred to a prepared baking dish and baked at 350°F to meld flavors and provide gentle heat throughout.
This mac and cheese makes a filling side or main course and can be served alongside salads or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The cooking method preserves a creamy texture without overdrying or becoming greasy.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 4 cloves garlic
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- ½ tbsp butter
- 6 oz evaporated milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ gouda cheese shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F and prepare a baking dish by greasing the bottom and sides. You can use butter or a non-stick oil spray.
- Finely chop the onion. Cut the bell pepper in half and remove the core and seeds before finely slicing. Finely mince the garlic.
- Over medium high heat, melt the butter in a medium sized skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes or until transparent. Toss in the pepper and garlic and saute for 5 minutes or until the peppers have softened.
- Remove the veggies from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the pasta according to the package. Cook the pasta as long as the package instructs or, if you prefer it slightly harder, cook for a little less than the recommended time.
- Drain the pasta, then return it back to the pot over medium-low heat. Add the cooked veggies, evaporated milk, mayo, and both cheeses. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper and stir on the stove until the cheese begins melting.
- Move the pasta to the previously prepared baking dish and generously top with more gouda and parmesan.
- Put the baking dish in the oven and cook for about 25 minutes or until the top has begun to crisp and brown. If you like it particularly crispy, turn your oven to its broil setting for another couple of minutes.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 407 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 407kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 50g | 17% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7g | 41% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 24mg | 8% |
| Sodium | 238mg | 10% |
| Potassium | 351mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 1101IU | 22% |
| Vitamin C | 40mg | 44% |
| Calcium | 205mg | 21% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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