Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups grated Bra Duro cheese
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. 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, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly.
6. Add the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the sauce.
7. Gradually stir in the Bra Duro and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni and cooked bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
9. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 630
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 1100mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Bra Duro cheese can be substituted with Parmesan cheese or Romano cheese.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack.
- 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.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, for a fun twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
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 the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or dinner rolls would be a great addition to this dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the bacon to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
Mac and cheese has been a popular comfort food in the United States since the 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is rich and creamy with a salty, smoky flavor from the bacon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
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