Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, making sure to whisk out any lumps.
5. Add salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.
6. Add shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
12. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the mac and cheese before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 748
Fat: 49g
Saturated Fat: 30g
Cholesterol: 157mg
Sodium: 1063mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of melting cheese.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
- Top the mac and cheese with sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers before baking.
- Use different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or fontina, for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use a high-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:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top of the mac and cheese before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson. It became a popular comfort food during the Great Depression.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, savory
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting