Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk for stirring cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 630
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Cholesterol: 122mg
Sodium: 869mg
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other short pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese, such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the macaroni and cheese for a meaty version.
- Stir in some chopped broccoli or spinach for a healthier version.
- Top the macaroni and cheese with sliced tomatoes or jalapeños for a colorful version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk to stir the cheese sauce to prevent lumps.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the macaroni and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins or bowls for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or milk to moisten it.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It originated in Italy, where pasta and cheese have been staples for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting