What Do Italians Call Mac and Cheese?

Mac and cheese is undoubtedly a beloved dish, especially in American cuisine, but the question arises: how do Italians refer to it? The common answer is that mac and cheese is not typically considered an Italian dish at all.

The Italian Pasta Perspective

According to various culinary sources and personal experiences, pasta is the general term Italians use for the dish. Pasta comes in many types, like fusilli, penne, and, as you might wonder, maccheroni. Remarkably, the term 'maccheroni' is rarely used in Italy.

The term 'maccheroni' is often associated with a particular shape of pasta, which is often tube-shaped and can be prepared with various fillings and sauces. However, it's not commonly used in the context of a dish similar to mac and cheese.

The Widespread Misunderstanding

For many, the idea that mac and cheese is called 'maccheroni' seems like an integral part of Italian culture and cuisine, but this is a misconception. It wasn't invented in Italy and doesn't belong to traditional Italian cuisine. Mac and cheese is essentially a dish created and refined in America, with roots in French culinary traditions.

Cheddar and Cheese in Italian Cuisine

The absence of cheddar in traditional Italian cuisine further emphasizes the difference. Cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, and Ricotta are more commonly used in Italian recipes. Cheddar, a strongly flavored and often sharp cheese, is not a typical choice for Italian cooking.

Considering that mac and cheese is a combination of pasta and cheese, there is no exact Italian equivalent. However, it's not uncommon for Italians to experiment with local cheeses and pasta shapes when cooking similar dishes.

Why Mac and Cheese in Different Names?

While other American dishes like 'hamburger' and 'hot dog' retain their English names, mac and cheese is often referred to by a different name in Italy. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors:

Culinary Colonialism: The adoption and adaptation of foreign dishes often lead to changes in names and ingredients. Mac and cheese is a prime example of a dish that has been adapted and localized in different cultures. Cultural Identity: Maintaining the original name helps preserve the dish's cultural identity and history. It serves as a reminder of the dish's origins and the culinary traditions it represents. Local Cheese Substitutes: When Italians cook dishes inspired by mac and cheese, they often use different types of cheese, such as Ricotta or Mozzarella, rather than cheddar. Therefore, a different name might be used to reflect these local variations.

So, if you're in Italy and you want to try a similar dish to mac and cheese, you might come across a pasta and cheese combination using local ingredients. While it might not have the same name or recipe, you can rest assured that it will be just as delicious and comforting.