Turkish Mac and Cheese (Fırın Makarna)

Turkish Mac and Cheese, also known as Fırın Makarna, offers a savory twist on classic comfort food. This recipe pairs creamy cheese sauce with Turkish spices for a flavorful dish. Ideal for a cozy family meal, it blends familiar pasta textures with rich cultural tastes. The dish infuses subtle, earthy notes of paprika, cumin, and cinnamon, creating a unique experience that sets it apart from traditional mac and cheese. Embrace the blend of smooth cheese and aromatic spices, transporting your palate to a new culinary adventure while maintaining the comforting charm of a beloved dish.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta shells
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season the cheese sauce with paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine evenly.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to ensure all pasta is coated.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Keywords: Dinner, Comfort Food, Cheese, Pasta, Baked Dish

Spice Rack: Paprika, Cumin, Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Nutmeg

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