The History of Mac and Cheese in America (2025) || From Comfort Food Classic to Culinary Icon! 🧀🍝

1. The European Beginnings The origins of mac and cheese can be traced back to *14th-century Europe**, where early versions of the dish appeared in Italian and English cookbooks. The Italian **"de lasanis"* was one of the earliest forms of pasta and cheese, featuring layered sheets of pasta with grated cheese. Similarly, England had a dish called *"makerouns,"* a baked pasta casserole with butter and cheese. These early recipes showcased the love for combining pasta and cheese, but they were primarily enjoyed by the wealthy due to the high cost of ingredients like cheese and flour. 2. Thomas Jefferson’s Influence Mac and cheese made its way to America in the late 18th century, thanks to none other than *Thomas Jefferson**. During his travels to Europe, Jefferson encountered pasta and cheese dishes, which he found delightful. He even brought back a **pasta-making machine* to the United States, along with a love for the dish. In **1802**, Jefferson served a version of mac and cheese at a state dinner, introducing it to the American elite. This event is often credited with sparking the dish's popularity in the United States. Jefferson’s version was likely a baked casserole, resembling the mac and cheese we know today. 3. The Rise of Mac and Cheese as a Comfort Food As the 19th century progressed, macaroni and cheese became more accessible to the average American household. Recipes began appearing in popular American cookbooks, such as *"The Virginia Housewife"* by Mary Randolph, published in **1824**. These recipes often called for boiled pasta, a cheese sauce, and a baked finish, setting the standard for how mac and cheese was prepared. By the early 20th century, mac and cheese had cemented its place as a beloved comfort food, especially in Southern households. Its affordability and simplicity made it a practical choice for families.