Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Alpe Formaggio cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Alpe Formaggio cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
11. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 790mg
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Alpe Formaggio cheese can be substituted with any other type of melting cheese such as cheddar, Gruyere, or fontina.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the mac and cheese for a protein boost.
- Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or ground beef.
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use whole milk for a creamier cheese sauce.
- Don't overcook the cheese sauce or it may become grainy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the mac and cheese, place it in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the mac and cheese with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair the mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce becomes grainy, it may have been cooked for too long or at too high of a temperature. Try whisking in a little bit of cold milk to smooth it out.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon and macaroni to the appropriate temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It originated in the United States in the late 18th century and has since become a staple in American cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
This mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and cheesy with a smoky bacon flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese hot and bubbly straight from the oven for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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