Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish for baking mac and cheese
- Mixing bowl for crab meat
- Oven
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. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni and crab meat to cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Pour mixture into a baking dish.
8. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 700
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Protein: 38g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with skim milk or 2% milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese such as Gouda or Monterey Jack.
- Crab meat can be substituted with shrimp or lobster.
Variations:
- Add chopped bacon to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or rotini.
- Add chopped jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to pick over the crab meat for any shells before adding it to the mac and cheese.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
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.
- Top with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a splash of milk to the mixture before baking.
- If the mac and cheese is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to the top before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to avoid overcooking.
- 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 America by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish.
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