National Mac N Cheese Day

Cheerful family enjoying mac n cheese picnic in a sunny park, dressed in casual summer outfits, surrounded by lush greenery.. — National mac n cheese day illustration

Get ready to celebrate everyone's favorite comfort food because it's National Mac n Cheese Day! This cheesy delight is beloved by foodies, families, and even sports fans. So grab a fork and get ready for a mouthwatering adventure as we dive into the ooey-gooey history of mac n cheese!

When is Mac N Cheese Day?

It's national mac n cheese day on the 14th July.

A Brief History of Mac n Cheese

If you think mac n cheese is a recent creation, think again! This delicious dish traces its roots back to the ancient Romans, who combined pasta and cheese to create a simple yet satisfying meal. Fast forward to the 18th century, and we find Thomas Jefferson, America's third president and a true foodie, falling head over heels for mac n cheese during his time in Europe.

Jefferson loved it so much that he even brought back a pasta machine from Italy to ensure he could indulge in this cheesy goodness whenever he pleased. It's safe to say that without Jefferson's passion for mac n cheese, it might not have gained the popularity it enjoys today.

Mac n Cheese Goes Online

As the internet age began, mac n cheese found its way into the digital world. Recipes, tips, and even memes celebrating this beloved dish started popping up on websites and social media platforms. Food bloggers and home chefs shared their creative twists on the classic recipe, leading to a glorious explosion of mac n cheese variations.

With all that online chatter, it's no wonder that National Mac n Cheese Day started gaining traction. People across the country rallied together to celebrate their love for this cheesy delight on July 14 every year.

History behind the term 'Mac N Cheese'

1769

Early Origins

Mac n cheese, also known as macaroni and cheese, can trace its origins back to 18th-century Europe. The term 'macaroni' refers to small, tube-shaped pasta made from durum wheat. It was originally imported from Italy and quickly gained popularity among the upper class in England. In 1769, Elizabeth Raffald, a successful English cookbook author, published a recipe for macaroni and cheese in her book 'The Experienced English Housekeeper'. This marked one of the earliest written records of an official macaroni and cheese recipe.

1802

Arrival in America

Macaroni and cheese made its way to America through Thomas Jefferson, who developed a fondness for the dish while serving as the U.S. Minister to France. Upon his return to the United States in 1802, he brought back a pasta-making machine and crates of macaroni. Jefferson served macaroni and cheese at a state dinner in 1803, introducing the dish to American society. It quickly gained popularity, especially in the southern states.

1937

Kraft Dinner Revolution

The term 'mac n cheese' gained prominence in 1937 when Kraft Foods, an American food company, introduced their iconic boxed macaroni and cheese product, known as 'Kraft Dinner' or 'Kraft Macaroni and Cheese'. This pre-packaged and easy-to-prepare version of macaroni and cheese became a staple in American households during the Great Depression. It provided an affordable and convenient meal option, solidifying the dish's place in American culture.

1993

National Macaroni and Cheese Day

In 1993, National Macaroni and Cheese Day was established to celebrate this beloved comfort food. Observed annually on July 14th, it is a day for mac n cheese enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite cheesy dish and explore various creative recipes. The day is often celebrated with macaroni and cheese cook-offs, tastings, and social media posts dedicated to sharing mac n cheese creations.

Did you know?

Did you know that there is a record for the largest serving of mac n cheese? In 2010, a restaurant in Lebanon cooked up a massive 1,323-pound pot of mac n cheese, earning themselves a spot in the Guinness World Records!