Macaroni gratin is an iconic dish of French cuisine that evokes childhood memories and family meals. This recipe, inspired by the great chef Paul Bocuse, highlights creamy and comforting flavors that will delight both young and old. Whether for a cozy dinner or to impress your guests, this gratin is the perfect solution for a tasty and convivial meal.
Prepare to savor a blend of al dente pasta, melting cheese, and a smooth béchamel sauce. Easy to make, this recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and a little love. Join me on this culinary adventure and discover how to create this irresistible dish.
Ingredients
For 4 people:
- 300 g of macaroni
- 50 cl of milk
- 50 g of butter
- 50 g of flour
- 200 g of grated cheese (Emmental or Comté)
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (thermostat 6).
- In a large pot, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In another pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and mix well to form a roux. Allow to cook for about 2 minutes without coloring.
- Gradually incorporate the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Let simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add 150 g of grated cheese, the beaten egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until you have a smooth sauce.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and gently mix to coat the pasta well.
- Pour everything into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the gratin is golden and bubbling.
Chef’s Tips
For an even more flavorful gratin, you can add lardons or caramelized onions to the mixture. Also, consider varying the cheeses for a personal touch!
