Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- 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 large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
6. Add Brie cheese and cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Add cooked macaroni and bacon to the skillet and stir until well combined.
9. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and parsley. Sprinkle over the macaroni and cheese.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 560
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 520mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of Brie and cheddar.
- You can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
- Add diced tomatoes or spinach for extra veggies.
- Use different types of cheese for different flavor profiles.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove the rind from the Brie cheese before cubing it.
- Cook the bacon until crispy to add texture to the dish.
- Use a whisk to make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
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 in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Top with additional chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or cream.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Macaroni and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, salty, savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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