Each year, we set aside July 14th to pay homage to an all-time American favorite dish – the glorious macaroni and cheese. Savored by many, whether baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb crust, whipped up quickly on the stove, or lovingly made at home, mac and cheese remains a beloved comfort food.
National Mac and Cheese Day is devoted to celebrating this cheesy delight and the joy it brings. Let’s gather to honor the heavenly indulgence that is mac and cheese!
History of National Mac and Cheese Day
Navigating through the history of Mac and Cheese, we discover that the simple combination of macaroni pasta and cheese has roots in Italy, France, and even England.
One of the earliest mentions of a recipe resembling Mac and Cheese can be found in a 14th-century English cookbook called The Forme of Cury. The recipe, known as Makerouns, was a cookery of macaroni pasta, cheese, and butter – a dish surprisingly similar to today’s Mac and Cheese.
In the late 18th century, the dish found an influential admirer in none other than Thomas Jefferson, who encountered macaroni pasta during his travels through Italy. Intrigued, he imported a pasta-making machine back to America, and Mac and Cheese essentially debuted on American soil, served at Jefferson’s grand dinner parties in his Virginia home.
Kraft Foods recognized the potential of this beloved dish during the era of the Great Depression in 1937. At just 19 cents, Kraft’s boxed version could satisfy a family of four and quickly became a staple in American households.
In the contemporary culinary world, we find this simple dish transforming into gourmet versions flanked by lobster and truffle, as well as on-the-go variations like microwavable cups and frozen dinners.
National Mac and Cheese Day Timeline
Thomas Jefferson's Encounter
Thomas Jefferson has his first encounter with macaroni and cheese in France and later brings it to America.
Mac and Cheese Served at White House
Thomas Jefferson serves macaroni and cheese at a dinner reception at the White House.
Introduction of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
Kraft Food introduces an affordable box of dried pasta and powdered cheese known as Kraft macaroni and cheese.
National Mac and Cheese Day Celebration
National Mac and Cheese Day is commemorated to honor the glorious macaroni and cheese.
Ideas to Celebrate National Mac and Cheese Day
Mac and Cheese Recipe Exchange
Invite friends and family over for a recipe exchange. Everyone makes their favorite version of mac and cheese and brings enough to share. Sample different recipes and exchange secrets and ideas for making the best mac and cheese.
Movies and Mac
Host a movie night featuring different mac and cheese dishes for your guests to enjoy. Choose a variety of films to keep the mood light and fun. Consider serving classic, spicy, or dessert variety of mac and cheese.
Cook-Off Contest
Host a cook-off where participants compete to make the best mac and cheese. You can categories like traditional, inventive, etc. The judges can either be appointed or decided by popular vote.
Online Mac and Cheese Cooking Class
Celebrate the day by enlisting an expert chef to host an online cooking class. Participants can learn how to make gourmet versions of this beloved dish or add new twists to a classic recipe. The class can be held live so that everyone can interact and ask questions.
Restaurant Hop
Support local restaurants by embarking on a restaurant hop. Start in the morning and visit several different establishments throughout the day to try their unique versions of mac and cheese.
6 Interesting Facts About Mac and Cheese
Thomas Jefferson Brought It to America
The popularization of Mac and Cheese in America is credited to Thomas Jefferson. After enjoying the dish in France, he brought a pasta machine and recipes back to the U.S. He even served Mac and Cheese at the presidential dinner.
Kraft Debut during The Great Depression
Kraft Foods introduced its boxed Mac and Cheese in 1937 during the Great Depression. It became an instant hit as it was a simple, affordable and filling meal that could feed a family of four for just 19 cents.
Most Popular Cheese Dish in the U.S.
Mac and Cheese holds the top spot as the most popular cheese recipe in the United States. It's so popular that it has its own national day, July 14th, which is dedicated to celebrating this comfort food.
The Role in World War II
During World War II, Mac and Cheese gained even more popularity as it was included in military rations due to its easy storage and preparation. It also provided a high-calorie meal for soldiers on the go.
A High-End Version
Should you have a spare $100 to drop on a serving of Mac and Cheese, Mel's Diner in San Francisco offers a deluxe version that includes five different cheeses and is topped with a generous helping of lobster.
Record-Breaking Mac and Cheese
The largest ever Mac and Cheese was made in 2022 by Schreiber Foods Inc. in Logan, Utah, USA,. It weighed a whopping 2,151 kg (4,742 lb 2.29 oz), enough to feed thousands of people.
National Mac and Cheese Day FAQs
Next National Mac and Cheese Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 14th | Friday |
| 2024 | July 14th | Sunday |
| 2025 | July 14th | Monday |
| 2026 | July 14th | Tuesday |
| 2027 | July 14th | Wednesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every July 14th | |
National Mac and Cheese Day Word Search
- Macaroni
- Cheese
- Pasta
- Creamy
- Delicious
- Recipe