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 salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups grated Asiago Pressato cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
5. Slowly whisk in whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, whisking frequently, until mixture thickens.
6. Add grated Asiago Pressato cheese to the saucepan and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and cooked bacon to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. Pour mac and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until breadcrumbs are golden brown and mac and cheese is heated through.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 580
Fat: 29g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 820mg
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other pasta shape.
- Asiago Pressato cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Bacon can be substituted with ham or pancetta.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the mac and cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, for a different flavor profile.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the mac and cheese for added protein.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it 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, place mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a little more cheese sauce or milk to moisten it.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the bacon to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations.
Flavor profiles:
This mac and cheese has a rich and creamy cheese sauce with a salty and smoky flavor from the bacon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite meal.
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