The vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma of Caribbean Macaroni Pie take me straight to sun-drenched beaches and warm, breezy evenings. Picture this: the golden crust, creamy cheese oozing between perfectly cooked macaroni, and a hint of heat from spicy peppers dancing through every bite. I found this recipe while reminiscing about joyful family gatherings, where comfort food was the centerpiece of laughter and connection.
After a tiring week filled with fast food and takeout, I craved something homemade that would truly warm my soul and please my taste buds. This dish effortlessly blends rich, creamy flavors with a pop of fresh vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser for anyone looking to revive the art of home cooking.
Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this Caribbean Macaroni Pie will prove to be your new favorite. With just the right balance of spice and decadence, it’s time to bring a slice of the Caribbean to your kitchen! Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together.
Why is Caribbean Macaroni Pie a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: This macaroni pie is a delightful explosion of Caribbean spices that brings warmth and excitement to your plate.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, every bite is sure to leave your guests asking for seconds.
Comfort food elevated: A creamy, cheesy texture combined with vibrant peppers takes traditional macaroni to new heights.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Versatile delight: Serve it as a side or the main event—this recipe fits all occasions!
Family-approved: Deliciously rich and satisfying, it’s a dish your loved ones will crave repeatedly.
Caribbean Macaroni Pie Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
• 1 cup heavy cream – Allows for a luxuriously creamy texture in your Caribbean macaroni pie.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind ingredients together for a perfect hold.
For the Pasta
• 8 ounces dried macaroni or elbow pasta – Choose your favorite shape for delightful bites.
• 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a decadent mouthfeel.
For the Flavorful Filling
• 1 medium green bell pepper – Brings a fresh, slightly sweet twist.
• 1 medium red bell pepper – Adds color and a sweet crunch to the dish.
• 1 small sweet or yellow onion – Provides a savory base note to enhance flavor.
• 1 pound New Zealand sharp cheddar cheese – The star ingredient that brings that gooey, memorable cheese pull!
For the Spices
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper – Adds a fiery kick that makes it extra special.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – Infuses a pleasant herbaceous layer into the pie.
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley – Brightens the flavor profile with its fresh taste.
• 2 to 3 teaspoons garlic powder – Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic depth.
• 2 teaspoons paprika – Offers a subtle smokiness that complements the creaminess.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme – Contributes an earthy quality that balances the richness.
• 1 teaspoon habanero hot sauce – A spicy dash that ignites the essence of the Caribbean.
• Kosher salt – Key for seasoning to perfection.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a hint of bite to every comforting forkful.
For Added Flavor
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – A tangy twist that enhances the cheese’s flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup – Offers a touch of sweetness that rounds out the seasoning.
• Butter or cooking spray – For coating the baking dish to prevent sticking.
How to Make Caribbean Macaroni Pie
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Prepare the Cream: Let 1 cup of heavy cream sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for a smoother blend. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and coat your baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
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Boil the Pasta: Bring a large saucepan of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. While waiting, dice the bell peppers and onion, then shred the cheddar cheese and beat the egg in a small bowl.
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Cook the Macaroni: Add 8 ounces of macaroni to the boiling water. Cook for 1 minute less than the package instructions for an al dente texture.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onion, cooking for about 8 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
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Add the Spices: Stir in the cayenne pepper, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and habanero hot sauce. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and let cool for at least 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
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Combine Cream and Egg: Once the macaroni is ready, drain it and add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture. Stir in the cream and beaten egg until everything is well combined.
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Create the Sauce: Add 3 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, and ketchup to the mixture. Return to low heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy, about 2 minutes.
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Incorporate the Cheese: Mix in 3 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, allowing some chunks to remain for gooey bites. Remember, it will melt more in the oven!
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Combine Macaroni and Cheese: Fold the macaroni into the cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring every piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
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Transfer and Layer: Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Top it off with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for a perfectly cheesy crust.
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Bake and Broil: Bake for about 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, then broil for an additional 2 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cayenne for extra heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Caribbean Macaroni Pie
- Creamy Consistency: Allow the heavy cream to sit out for 30 minutes. This helps achieve a smoother texture in your Caribbean macaroni pie.
- Proper Pasta Cooking: Cook macaroni for 1 minute less than the package instructions. This prevents mushy pasta when baked with the creamy filling.
- Flavorful Vegetables: Don’t skip sautéing the bell peppers and onion! Cooking them releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
- Cheese Variation: Use a mix of your favorite cheeses if sharp cheddar isn’t available. Just be mindful of the overall flavor balance.
- Don’t Over-Bake: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Over-baking can result in a dry pie; aim for melted cheese and a golden top.
- Spice Control: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and habanero hot sauce to suit your heat preference. A little goes a long way!
Make Ahead Options
These Caribbean Macaroni Pie components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the bell peppers and onion, shred the cheese, and mix the dry spices up to 3 days in advance, ensuring minimal time spent on busy weeknights. Additionally, you could combine the cream and egg mixture and refrigerate it overnight to streamline your cooking process. Just remember to store all ingredients separately, preferably in airtight containers, to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the macaroni, blend everything together, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy that warm, comforting pie without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Caribbean Macaroni Pie?
Enhancing your Caribbean Macaroni Pie experience is key, and the right pairings can take your meal from delightful to unforgettable.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the rich creaminess of the pie.
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and fluffy rice complements the flavors and adds a tropical twist to your table.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Perfectly seasoned shrimp add a hint of smokiness, making for a protein-packed pairing that enhances the overall meal.
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Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw cut through the richness, creating an inviting contrast with each forkful.
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Black Beans: Creamy black beans seasoned with spices make a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of your macaroni pie.
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Sweet Plantains: Their caramelized sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory spices, creating a delightful explosion of flavors.
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Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings a bright, fruity note that ties in with the Caribbean theme, awakening your taste buds.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This luscious dessert adds a sweet end to your savory meal, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Hibiscus Iced Tea: Served chilled, this floral tea pairs wonderfully with the dish, offering a refreshing sip that complements the spices.
Caribbean Macaroni Pie Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by adding your own twist to this delicious pie!
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Spicy Addition: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick that teases your taste buds. The mix of creamy cheese with fiery spices is irresistible!
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Vegan Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cheese alternative. This maintains the creamy texture while accommodating plant-based diets.
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Protein Boost: Add cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken to amp up the protein content. This not only enhances flavors but also transforms this dish into a hearty meal.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant, fresh flavor. They brighten up the dish and add a lovely pop of color!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before baking for added texture and crunch. This simple change can elevate every cheese-laden bite!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda or mozzarella for distinct flavors and textures. Each cheese brings something special to the table.
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Creamy Dream: Swap out the cheddar for cream cheese for an even creamier pie. The result is a dreamy, decadent experience that’s hard to beat.
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Veggie-Heavy: Load it up with more vegetables like spinach, corn, or diced tomatoes. This adds vibrant color and additional nutrients, creating a feast for the eyes and palate!
How to Store and Freeze Caribbean Macaroni Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Caribbean macaroni pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the assembled (unbaked) pie tightly covered for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, place the pie in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through, ensuring the cheese stays gooey.
Portioning: Consider slicing individual portions before freezing for easy access to a delightful comfort food fix at a moment’s notice.
Caribbean Macaroni Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of bell peppers are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any combination of bell peppers you prefer, but I recommend using green and red for that wonderful color contrast and flavor balance. Look for peppers that are firm and have shiny skin, as this indicates ripeness. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, which could signal spoilage.
How should I store leftover Caribbean macaroni pie?
After enjoying your delicious pie, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest popping it back into a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes to keep the cheesy goodness intact!
Can I freeze Caribbean macaroni pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cover the assembled, unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. A wonderful way to have comfort food on hand!
My macaroni pie seems dry; what can I do?
Very! Several factors can affect moisture levels. First, ensure you’re not overcooking the macaroni; it should remain slightly underdone before mixing with your creamy filling. Also, be generous with the heavy cream and cheese mixture. If you find your mixture dry before baking, adding a splash more heavy cream can help.
Can I adjust the spice levels in this dish?
Absolutely! If you’re sensitive to heat or cooking for guests who might be, feel free to reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and habanero hot sauce. Conversely, if you love a kick, consider adding more. This recipe is very flexible, so make it to your taste!
Is it safe for pets?
Generally, this Caribbean macaroni pie isn’t ideal for pets, mainly due to ingredients like cheese and spices which can be hard for them to digest. If you’re sharing a nibble with a furry friend, I recommend keeping it simple—perhaps just a plain cooked macaroni piece without cheese or seasoning. Always best to check with your vet first!
Irresistible Caribbean Macaroni Pie Loaded with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let 1 cup of heavy cream sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for a smoother blend. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and coat your baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large saucepan of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. While waiting, dice the bell peppers and onion, then shred the cheddar cheese and beat the egg in a small bowl.
- Add 8 ounces of macaroni to the boiling water. Cook for 1 minute less than the package instructions for an al dente texture.
- In a medium heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onion, cooking for about 8 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the cayenne pepper, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and habanero hot sauce. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and let cool for at least 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Once the macaroni is ready, drain it and add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture. Stir in the cream and beaten egg until everything is well combined.
- Add 3 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, and ketchup to the mixture. Return to low heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in 3 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, allowing some chunks to remain for gooey bites. Remember, it will melt more in the oven!
- Fold the macaroni into the cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring every piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
- Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Top it off with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for a perfectly cheesy crust.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, then broil for an additional 2 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy on top.