The fortieth president came to politics after a film and broadcasting career.
Family or White House tradition
The Reagan Library lists macaroni and cheese among his favourite foods. This bubbling home bake uses a modern cheese sauce and a crisp breadcrumb top.
The president & the table
The Reagan Library’s favourite-food list includes macaroni and cheese, grilled hamburgers and brownies. That gives this menu unusually direct support for all three choices. The familiar jelly beans are only one small part of a broader appetite for American home food.
Behind this story
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, “Facts about Ronald Reagan,” favourite foods and desserts.
APRON ON. HISTORY CAN WAIT.
Make it at home.
Our home adaptation · Serves 4 · Not yet kitchen-tested
What you’ll need
Let’s make it
Heat the oven to 200°C / 400°F. Cook pasta 2 minutes less than the package time; drain.
Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until thickened.
Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, half the Parmesan, mustard, salt and pepper. Fold in pasta and transfer to a 2 litre / 8 cup baking dish.
Top with breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden. Rest for 5 minutes.
About this home version
A modern home recipe with practical ingredients and measured quantities.
Metric and US measures are approximate equivalents. For baking, use weights when you can.
