Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped casadiella (Italian sweet fried dough)
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
4. In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni, bacon, and chopped casadiella to the sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
8. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 650
Fat: 37g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 720mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- Instead of bacon, you can use ham or pancetta.
- If you don't have casadiella, you can omit it or use another type of fried dough.
Variations:
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or mozzarella.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the sauce.
- Use a whisk to make the sauce smooth and prevent lumps.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
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 cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or scallions
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream.
- If the sauce is too thin, add more cheese or flour.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, salty, savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or a side dish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A