Indulging in Comfort: Celebrating National Mac & Cheese Day
On July 14th each year, food enthusiasts across the United States gather to celebrate one of the ultimate comfort foods: macaroni and cheese. National Mac & Cheese Day pays homage to this beloved dish, known for its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and nostalgic appeal.
Macaroni and cheese, affectionately dubbed "mac & cheese," holds a special place in American culinary culture. Its roots trace back to the 18th century, when Thomas Jefferson famously encountered a pasta machine in Italy and introduced macaroni to the United States. Over time, mac & cheese evolved into a popular dish enjoyed by people of all ages.
What makes mac & cheese so beloved? It's the perfect combination of simple ingredients – pasta and cheese – transformed into a rich and satisfying meal. Traditional recipes typically feature elbow macaroni pasta smothered in a creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, or other favorite cheeses. Variations abound, incorporating ingredients like bacon, lobster, truffle oil, or different types of pasta shapes to enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Celebrating National Mac & Cheese Day can take many forms. Restaurants and food vendors often feature special mac & cheese dishes on their menus, showcasing creative twists and gourmet interpretations of the classic comfort food. Home cooks also get in on the celebration, experimenting with homemade recipes or revisiting cherished family traditions passed down through generations.
Social media platforms come alive on National Mac & Cheese Day with enthusiasts sharing photos of their cheesy creations and exchanging tips for achieving the perfect creamy consistency or the ideal cheese blend. Hashtags like #MacAndCheeseDay trend as people celebrate their love for this iconic dish.
Beyond its deliciousness, mac & cheese holds a place in pop culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and even as a staple at social gatherings and family dinners. It's a dish that brings people together, evoking feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and comfort with every creamy, cheesy bite.
As we mark National Mac & Cheese Day, let's savor the joy of indulging in this timeless comfort food. Whether you prefer classic recipes or adventurous variations, take a moment to appreciate the culinary magic of mac & cheese and the simple pleasure it brings to our tables and taste buds.
- In a small bowl with melted butter add Panko crumbs and mix, set aside
- In a skillet (I use cast iron) cook bacon until crispy and drain on a paper towel
- In the same skillet remove all but 2 Tablespoons of bacon fat. add in diced jalapenos and cook until soft about 1 minute
- Add in flour and whisk for about 1 minute to cook the flour a bit
- Add in half n half and whisk until combined, and simmer until thickened
- Remove sauce from heat and add shredded cheese and bacon and mix until combined
- Fold in shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add al dente pasta to the sauce and mix. Place in a baking dish or keep in skillet.
- Bake at 350 for 20 minutes
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