This baked pudding is mentioned in Mrs Beeton’s The Book of Household Management, published in 1861, but there have been references to macaroni from the 1300's. It may have come from a time when it was common for wealthy households to bring across chefs from Europe, notably France, Spain and Italy, who have influenced the food in Britain. In fact, a version of macaroni and cheese is first mentioned in a 14th century British book, no doubt from Italian influences at the time!