Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Carlow Sheep Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
6. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded Carlow Sheep Cheddar cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
9. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
11. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
13. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 650mg
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular cheddar cheese can be substituted for Carlow Sheep Cheddar cheese.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or potato chips.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or chicken for a protein boost.
- Mix in cooked vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese such as Gouda, Fontina, or Parmesan for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or clumping.
- For a crispy topping, broil the mac and cheese for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or bowls for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives over the top of the mac and cheese for added flavor and color.
Pairings:
Pair the mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the bread crumbs are not browning, broil the mac and cheese for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese sauce to the proper temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson in the late 18th century. It became a popular comfort food during the Great Depression and has remained a classic American dish ever since.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, smoky, slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled or roasted meats.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Tangy, Comforting