In the Kitchen: Trini-Style Macaroni Pie

🧀 A cheesy, baked, Caribbean classic with a crispy top! 🧀

Macaroni pie is the ultimate comfort food—Trinidad style! A deliciously cheesy dish baked to golden perfection with a custard-like texture that’s savory, creamy, and oh-so-tasty. This is a must-have at any family gathering, BBQ, or festive occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni

• 2 tablespoons butter (for the pasta)

• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretch)

• 1/2 cup evaporated milk

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat!)

• 1 tablespoon ketchup (for a little tang!)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking.

Prepare the custard mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper. The combination of milk and eggs will give your pie its custard-like texture.

Assemble the pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, half of the shredded cheese, and the custard mixture. Stir until well combined.

Bake to golden perfection

Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve

Once baked, allow the macaroni pie to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside a fresh salad, fried chicken, or just enjoy on its own.

Hope you enjoy!