Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish for baking mac and cheese
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 675
- Fat: 41g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar and Parmesan.
- You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a healthier twist.
- Use canned or fresh roasted tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the oven.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
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 mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, tangy, savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or barbecue.
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