Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup duck sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and duck sauce until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 500
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk to make sure the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A