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An overhead view of peri peri mac and cheese in four black dishes. There is seasoning and breadcrumbs in the photo.

Nando's Style Peri Peri Mac and Cheese Pasta Recipe

5 from 6 votes
The ultimate macaroni cheese recipe with a garlicky Peri-Peri panko crumb topping. The whole family will love this. You can serve it as a side dish or main course with garlic bread for a comforting and delicious meal.
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Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 710kcal

Ingredients
 
 

  • 150 g Cheddar
  • 110 g Red Leicester Cheese
  • 100 g Mozzarella
  • 40 g Butter
  • 40 g Plain Flour
  • 700 ml Milk
  • 1 tsp Yellow Mustard
  • 500 g Dried Macaroni Pasta
  • 1.5 tbsp Peri Peri Seasoning
  • 50 g Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
  • Grate the cheddar, Red Leicester cheese, and mozzarella. Set aside.
  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a thick paste.
  • Add milk to the flour in stages, whisking each time until smooth. Heat and stir until the mixture thickens to form a white sauce.
  • Add the grated cheese to the white sauce. Stir as the cheese melts.
  • Add the yellow mustard, season to taste, and mix thoroughly.
  • Cook the macaroni in boiling, salted water until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander.
  • Mix the drained macaroni with the cheesy sauce until fully coated. Transfer to an oven-proof dish.
  • Combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and peri-peri seasoning. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  • Place in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are toasted and the sauce is hot and bubbling.
  • Remove from the oven and serve.

Recipe Notes

  • Gradual Milk: Add milk slowly to roux for smooth sauce to prevent lumps.
  • Seasoning Balance: Taste cheese sauce pre-macaroni, adjust mustard, salt, pepper to taste.
  • Al Dente Pasta: Cook macaroni until al dente to prevent sogginess.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let peri peri mac and cheese rest briefly for settled flavours and for easier serving.

Nutrition Estimate

Calories: 710kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 86mg | Sodium: 482mg | Potassium: 448mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 768IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 563mg | Iron: 2mg