Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour, salt, and pepper and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until mixture is smooth.
6. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until mixture is thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until combined.
9. Pour macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and macaroni is golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 437
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Protein: 19 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the macaroni, you can use any type of small pasta such as shells, elbows, or penne.
- For the butter, you can use margarine or olive oil.
- For the milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk.
- For the cheddar cheese, you can use any type of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda.
Variations:
- For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese and replace the milk with vegetable broth.
- For a healthier version, use whole wheat macaroni and low-fat milk.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to stir the cheese sauce constantly while it is cooking to prevent it from burning.
- To make the macaroni and cheese extra creamy, add 1/4 cup of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers 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 the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins or in a large baking dish.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with garlic bread or a side of steamed vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish in the United States since the early 1900s.
Flavor Profiles:
The flavor of this dish is creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting