Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and continue to whisk for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
5. Gradually whisk in almond milk, stirring constantly until mixture is smooth.
6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce has thickened.
8. Add shredded cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
9. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
10. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
11. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 19g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 17g
Sodium: 400mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular milk or soy milk can be substituted for almond milk.
- Other types of cheese can be used in place of cheddar cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Add chopped broccoli or cauliflower for a veggie-packed version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more almond milk to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese to thicken it up.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more almond milk to the cheese sauce.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Mac and cheese has been a popular dish in America since the 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Nutty, Savory, Comforting