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Mac and Two Cheeses with Caramelized Shallots

This macaroni cheese with caramelised shallots offers a sophisticated twist on the classic vegetarian comfort food. By combining sharp extra-mature cheddar with tangy goat's cheese, the dish achieves a complex flavour profile that is far more rewarding than the standard recipe. The addition of slowly softened, sweet shallots provides a beautiful contrast to the rich, creamy sauce, while a hint of hot sauce adds a subtle warmth that cuts through the richness of the dairy.

Perfect for a cosy midweek supper or as an impressive side dish for a weekend roast, this homemade pasta bake is both indulgent and easy to prepare. Using single cream instead of a traditional béchamel makes for a silkier, lighter texture that coats the macaroni perfectly. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the savoury notes and provide a fresh finish to this heart-warming meal.

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Ingredients for Mac and Two Cheeses with Caramelized Shallots

  • 45ml butter plus more for baking dish

  • 350g sliced large shallots (about 6)

  • 230g small elbow macaroni (475ml )

  • 300ml half cream

  • 2 1/2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Cholula)

  • 230g (packed) coarsely grated extrasharp cheddar cheese (about 230g )

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons plain flour

  • 80g crumbled soft fresh goat cheese

How to make Mac and Two Cheeses with Caramelized Shallots

Preheat oven to 204°C. Butter 11x7x2-inch glass baking dish. Melt 45ml butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallots; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover and cook 5 minutes, stirring often. Reduce heat to medium. Cook, covered, until shallots are deep brown, stirring often, about 6 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook macaroni in large saucepan of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally; drain well. Reserve pan. Bring half cream and hot sauce to simmer in same saucepan over medium heat. Toss cheddar cheese and flour in medium bowl to coat; add to half cream mixture. Whisk until sauce is smooth and just returns to simmer, about 2 minutes. Mix in pasta. Season with salt and pepper.

Spread pasta mixture in prepared dish. Top with shallots, then goat cheese. Sprinkle with pepper. Bake until heated through, about 15 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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