Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, was an influential figure in American history and a known lover of good food. Among his culinary favorites was macaroni and cheese, a dish he popularized in America. In this post, we’ll explore a bit about Jefferson’s life and presidency, and his passion for this classic comfort food, and provide a detailed recipe so you can enjoy it too.
The Apostle of Democracy
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. He was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. Jefferson was a man of many talents, including being a statesman, diplomat, architect, and scholar. His influence on the early development of the United States was profound, and his legacy includes the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Thomas Jefferson’s presidency was marked by significant achievements and decisions that shaped the course of American history. One of his most notable accomplishments was the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States and opened up the continent for westward expansion. This acquisition was followed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which Jefferson commissioned to explore the newly acquired territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean.
During his time in office, Jefferson also focused on reducing the national debt and limiting the size of the federal government, adhering to his belief in a more decentralized republic. Additionally, his Embargo Act of 1807, aimed at pressuring Britain and France to respect American neutrality during their ongoing conflict, had significant economic repercussions and was a source of controversy. Jefferson’s presidency was instrumental in expanding the nation and solidifying the principles of American democracy.
Thomas Jefferson’s Love for Mac & Cheese
Thomas Jefferson was an avid food enthusiast and is often credited with popularizing macaroni and cheese in America. During his time as a diplomat in France, Jefferson encountered the dish and was so impressed that he brought back a pasta machine and a recipe.
Macaroni and cheese became a favorite at Monticello, his Virginia estate, where he often served it to guests. Jefferson first encountered macaroni and cheese in Italy and France, where he spent time exploring European cuisine. Fascinated by the taste and simplicity of the dish, he meticulously documented the recipes and techniques for making pasta.
In 1787, Jefferson wrote detailed notes on making macaroni, and he even commissioned a special pasta machine to be sent to him in America. Upon his return to the United States, Jefferson introduced macaroni and cheese to his guests at Monticello and at state dinners, helping to popularize the dish in America. It’s said that he served a macaroni pie at a state dinner in 1802, making it one of the earliest documented instances of macaroni and cheese being served in the United States.
Thomas Jefferson’s Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- Bread crumbs for topping optional
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Combine and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
Bake and Serve:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving.
Video
Notes
- Historical Context: Thomas Jefferson is credited with popularizing macaroni and cheese in the United States after discovering the dish during his time in France. He even served it at a state dinner in 1802.
- Variations: For a richer flavor, you can mix different types of cheese such as Gruyere or Parmesan. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder can also enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Mac and cheese can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.