Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced country ham
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°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 until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and continue to stir until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and add salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
6. Add cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the saucepan, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Stir in diced country ham.
8. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
9. Pour mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 610
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 1180mg
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Country ham can be substituted with cooked bacon or sausage.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor.
- Add breadcrumbs to the top for a crunchy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Shred the cheese yourself for a smoother consistency.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
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 in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the ham to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
- 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:
Savory, cheesy, and salty.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or barbecue.
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Taste: Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Smoky, Comforting