Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers (saltines, Ritz, or your favorite cracker)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- 8-inch baking pan
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Fork
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese, eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Pour macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking pan.
4. In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers and melted butter. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
5. Sprinkle cracker mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni and cheese is bubbly.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 270
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the cheese, you can use any type of cheese you prefer.
- For the milk, you can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.
- For the crackers, you can use any type of cracker you prefer.
Variations:
- For a different flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite herbs or spices to the macaroni and cheese mixture.
- For a different texture, try adding 1/2 cup of cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the macaroni and cheese mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier topping, try baking the macaroni and cheese bites for an additional 5 minutes.
- For a creamier texture, try adding an additional 1/4 cup of milk to the macaroni and cheese mixture.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the macaroni and cheese bites on a platter with a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Try serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the macaroni and cheese bites are not browning on top, try increasing the oven temperature to 375°F and baking for an additional 5 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
Always store cooked food in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food History:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Italy in the 14th century, and has since become a popular dish in the United States.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a crunchy, buttery topping.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
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Taste: Crispy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting