Creamy Salmon Mac and Cheese

Name: Creamy Salmon Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 300 g macaroni; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 2 cups milk (preferably whole); 1 1/2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese (grated); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 150 g smoked salmon (flaked); 150 g fresh salmon (cooked and flaked); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter (melted); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

55 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in this creamy salmon mac and cheese, a perfect blend of rich flavours and comforting textures.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Salmon mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the rich, savoury flavour of salmon. This version is perfect for those who love a twist on classic dishes, introducing seafood into a beloved favourite. This recipe uses both smoked and fresh salmon to enhance the depth of flavour, while sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses create a creamy, decadent sauce. It's a dish that works beautifully for both family dinners and entertaining guests, providing a satisfying meal that's sure to impress.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the cheese sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps.

Add cheese to the sauce

Remove sauce from heat and stir in Cheddar, Parmesan, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Pro tip: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Combine pasta and sauce

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, smoked salmon, and fresh salmon. Mix well until pasta is evenly coated.

Prepare the breadcrumb topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and parsley. Mix until breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Pro tip: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Assemble and bake

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Transfer pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

Pro tip: For a crustier top, broil for an additional 2 minutes at the end.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
Opt for smoked salmon for a richer flavour.
Reheat leftovers gently to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make salmon mac and cheese?

The total time to make salmon mac and cheese is about 55 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh salmon with canned salmon for convenience. Ensure it's drained and flaked before use.

What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?

Sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses are recommended for a rich and creamy texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and store it in the refrigerator a day in advance. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What wine pairs well with salmon mac and cheese?

A chilled white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the dish.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salmon mac and cheese with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the dish. You can prepare this dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition per serving

560

Calories

29g

Protein

26g

Fat

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