Trinidad Macaroni Pie Recipe

Jump to Recipe

I have always loved macaroni pie. It’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and joy with every bite.

In Trinidad and Tobago, macaroni pie is more than just a meal; it’s a staple at Sunday lunches, festive gatherings, and limes.

It’s creamy, cheesy goodness no one can resist. Whether paired with stewed chicken, fried rice, or callaloo, macaroni pie is a must-have in any Trini kitchen.

What is Trinidad Macaroni Pie?

Trinidad Macaroni Pie is a baked pasta made with boiled macaroni, a rich cheese sauce, and flavorful seasonings.

Unlike its American cousin, macaroni, and cheese, macaroni pie is baked to golden perfection, creating a delicious crust on top.

The dish often features a mix of local herbs and spices like thyme, marjoram, and garlic powder, which set it apart from other cheesy pasta dishes.

A topping of extra cheese gives the pie its signature crispy crust. It’s a versatile dish that can stand alone or serve as a side to many Caribbean favorites.

Ingredients for Trinidad Macaroni Pie

• 1 (14 oz) pack macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 ½ cups evaporated milk
• 5 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp white pepper
• 2 tsp ground thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tsp marjoram, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Extra grated cheese for topping

How to Make Trinidad Macaroni Pie

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
Add the flour to the onions and mix to form a paste. Gradually pour in the evaporated milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.

Turn off the heat and add 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

To the cheese sauce, add ketchup, mustard, salt, white pepper, thyme, marjoram, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Grease a baking dish and transfer the macaroni mixture into it. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the macaroni pie for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve

Let the pie cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Eat with Trinidad Macaroni Pie

• Stewed Chicken: The rich, savory gravy from stewed chicken complements the cheesy pasta perfectly.
• Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice makes for a hearty pairing.
• Callaloo: The creamy, earthy flavor of callaloo adds a traditional Caribbean touch.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad provides balance to the richness of the pie.
• BBQ Meats: Pair with grilled or barbecued meats for a crowd-pleasing meal.

How to Store Macaroni Pie

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the dish ahead of time, here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store macaroni pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezer: Macaroni pie freezes well. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Make Ahead: Assemble the macaroni pie and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

FAQs About Trinidad Macaroni Pie

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while cheddar is traditional, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for variety.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use dairy-free milk, and replace cheese with a vegan alternative.

3. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or panko as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

4. Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Many add vegetables like sweet peppers, peas, or even cooked ground beef for a more filling dish.

5. Is ketchup necessary?
Ketchup adds a hint of sweetness and tang, but you can omit it or replace it with tomato paste or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier flavor.

Trinidad Macaroni Pie is a classic Caribbean dish loved for its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and comforting flavors. With its crispy golden crust and flavorful herbs, it’s a satisfying dish that is easy to make.

More Trinidad Sunday lunch sides

• Trinidadian Callaloo Crab Recipe For Sunday Lunch
• Trinidad Baked Potato Pie Recipe
• Trinidad Tasty Stewed Chicken Recipe
• Trinidadian Stewed Lentils Recipe
• Tasty Trini-Style Stewed Oxtail