Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh tarragon
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Large baking dish for baking mac and cheese
- Mixing bowl for breadcrumbs
- Oven for baking
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. Add cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the saucepan and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Pour mac and cheese into a large baking dish.
9. In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 650
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 970mg
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any type of pasta.
- Whole milk can be substituted with skim milk or almond milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or coconut cream.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty twist.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to salt the pasta water to add flavor to the macaroni.
- Use a whisk to make the cheese sauce smooth and creamy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Top with extra grated cheese and fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, basil, cilantro, dill, and tarragon.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled asparagus
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 make it creamier.
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.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, spicy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Rich, Comforting