Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean? Then look no further! This Caribbean macaroni pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a delightful blend of savory spices, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy topping that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick dinner idea or a delicious addition to their repertoire of homemade cooking. Get ready to experience the best of Caribbean flavors!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicier kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
-
Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Create the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, thyme, allspice, nutmeg, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, vegetable sauce, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
-
Add the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pour this mixture into the macaroni mixture and stir until well combined.
-
Bake to perfection: Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Caribbean Macaroni Pie:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder flavor, omit it entirely.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of your favorites would all work wonderfully.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, stir in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or crumbled sausage before baking.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the macaroni pie up to a day in advance and bake it when ready. Just keep it refrigerated until baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Caribbean macaroni pie recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean in your own kitchen. It's a guaranteed hit with family and friends, a perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to share your culinary creations!