This is one of the most comforting, soul-warming dishes from the Caribbean that deserves a spotlight on every dinner table: Haitian Mac & Cheese, also known as Haitian Macaroni au Gratin. This isn’t your typical mac and cheese—it’s rich, vibrant, full of flavor, and packed with island flair. Whether you’re familiar with Haitian cuisine or just discovering it, this version of baked mac and cheese will absolutely win you over.
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What is Haitian Mac & Cheese?
Haitian Mac & Cheese is a cherished dish in Haitian households, often served at Sunday dinners, celebrations, and special gatherings.
Unlike the American-style creamy stovetop version, Haitian Mac & Cheese is baked to perfection, layered with rich flavors from garlic, onions, bell peppers, and coconut milk. It’s savory, aromatic, and loaded with depth from carefully sautéed ingredients before being baked with shredded cheese until golden and crisp on top.
You get tender pasta in every bite, balanced with a satisfying blend of creamy and crusty textures.
Why Does One Not Use Macaroni Pasta?
Although the name might suggest elbow macaroni, traditional Haitian Mac & Cheese is almost always made with penne pasta.
Penne holds the sauce better and gives the dish a hearty bite, helping it stand up beautifully to baking. The tube shape allows the coconut milk and melted cheese to seep inside, making each forkful deeply satisfying.
Swapping elbow macaroni for penne not only enhances texture but also brings this dish closer to its cultural roots.
Ingredients for the Best Haitian Mac & Cheese
The magic of this recipe lies in simple, flavorful ingredients working together. Start with good-quality penne pasta and sauté aromatic onions and garlic in a splash of vegetable oil.
Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and color, while coconut milk brings an unexpected richness that pairs wonderfully with savory notes. The shredded cheese pulls everything together into a bubbling, golden casserole.
For the best results, be sure to use fresh produce and cook the pasta just to al dente before baking.
How to Make Haitian Mac & Cheese
Making this Haitian favorite is easier than it sounds, and the results are incredibly rewarding.
Begin by cooking the penne pasta until just tender—avoid overcooking since it will continue baking later. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and sauté finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers until fragrant and slightly softened.
Give the pasta and the cooked vegetables to a mixing bowl. Add coconut milk and stir until everything is blended together.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet to soak in the flavors, then transfer everything to a baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and bake until bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—it’s worth the wait!
Tips and Tricks for Leftovers
Leftover Haitian Mac & Cheese stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crisp top layer. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that signature gratin crust.
You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on—just thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.
Ideas for Variations and Uses
This dish is a blank canvas for creativity while staying true to its comforting roots.
You can stir in cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. A bit of Scotch bonnet pepper adds a nice kick if you like spice. It also makes a great side dish for grilled proteins or can stand alone as a main course with a fresh salad.
Don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to dish for potlucks, holidays, or lazy Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! You can assemble it, cover, and refrigerate a day in advance. Just bake before serving.
Any cheese that melts well will work—look for mild or medium cheeses with good melting properties. You can mix a few for more flavor depth.
Yes, coconut milk is often used in Haitian cooking for its rich, velvety texture and subtle sweetness, which balances beautifully with the other ingredients.
“Au gratin” refers to a baked dish with a crusty cheese topping. In Haitian cuisine, this term is affectionately used for this special baked pasta that’s lovingly prepared and served at celebrations.
Other Recipes to Try
Let’s Stay Connected!
I’d love to see your version of this Haitian classic! If you make this Haitian Mac & Cheese recipe, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram or Facebook.
Nothing makes me happier than seeing your delicious creations. And if you loved it (or made your own twist), leave a comment below and don’t forget to give it a star rating.
Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover the recipe too!
Haitian Macaroni and Cheese
Haitian Mac & Cheese, a delectable Caribbean dish, deserves a prominent place on every dinner table. This culinary masterpiece, also known as Haitian Macaroni au Gratin, surpasses traditional macaroni and cheese in its richness, vibrancy, and delectable flavor. Whether you are familiar with Haitian cuisine or embarking on a culinary journey to discover it, this baked macaroni and cheese will undoubtedly captivate your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 4 oz dairy free cheese, divided
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until just tender.
- Next, in a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and sauté finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Transfer together with the pasta to a large mixing bowl, add coconut milk and stir until everything is blended together.
- Give the mixture into a baking dish and generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top
- Finally bake on 380F for 15 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
Notes
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—it’s worth the wait!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1.5 cupsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 381Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 196mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 12g