Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups evaporated milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling macaroni
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add evaporated milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Add salt and pepper and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
9. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 540
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other pasta shape.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Evaporated milk can be substituted with whole milk or half-and-half.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- For a creamier sauce, add more evaporated milk or a splash of heavy cream.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or dinner rolls would be a great addition to this dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more evaporated milk or a splash of water to thin it out.
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:
Macaroni and cheese has been a popular comfort food in the United States since the 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of cold milk or a crisp white wine.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting