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Mac and Cheese

Although mac-and-cheese was not invented by Blacks, the importance of mac-and-cheese in the soul food tradition can never be understated. Mac-and-cheese did not come to the tables of African Americans in a mainstream way until after the Emancipation. Before this Blacks would only make mac-and-cheese in the plantation's big house. However, when Blacks gain access to dairy and more quality ingredients mac-and-cheese became a celebratory dish a convenient comfort food, and a meal stretcher for impoverished Black families. Today mac-and-cheese is a staple to the soul food tradition, and in some families it is a dishes that only can be made and passed down by certain family members within people's respective families.

Ready In : 50mins | Serves: 8

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 lb macaroni

  • 8 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1⁄2 cup muenster cheese, shredded

  • 1⁄2 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1⁄2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1⁄2 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded

  • 2 cups half-and-half

  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed

  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten

  • 1⁄4 teaspoon seasoning salt

  • 1⁄8 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

 

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350.

  2. Lightly butter a deep 2 1/2 quart baking dish.

  3. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rapid boil.

  4. Add macaroni and the 1 TB oil.

  5. Cook for 7 minutes, or until somewhat tender.

  6. Drain well, and return to the pot.

  7. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt 8 TB of the butter.

  8. Stir into macaroni.

  9. In a large bowl, combine all of the shredded cheeses.

  10. To the macaroni, add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheeses, half and half, the cubed cheese and the eggs, and the seasoned salt and pepper.

  11. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish, and top with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.

  12. Dot with remaining 1 TB of the butter.

  13. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and bubbly.

Photo of Patti Labelles Macaroni And Cheese Recipe. Recipe - Genius Kitchen, Genius Kitchen, 14 Jan. 2002, www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/patti-labelles-macaroni-and-cheese-17186.

References

Arrington, Nyesha. “Cheese IQ: A Side of Soul.” Culture: the Word on Cheese, 2 Aug. 2016, culturecheesemag.com/cheese-iq/side-of-soul.

Yooper. “Patti Labelles Macaroni And Cheese Recipe - Genius Kitchen.” Recipe - Genius Kitchen, Genius Kitchen, 14 Jan. 2002, Accessed 1 May 2018 www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/patti-labelles-macaroni-and-cheese-17186.

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