Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb Formaggio di Montagna di Sesto cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, and whisk until combined.
6. Add the grated Formaggio di Montagna di Sesto cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
7. Pour the cheese sauce into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese sauce.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Formaggio di Montagna di Sesto cheese can be substituted with any other hard, aged cheese such as Parmesan or Gruyere.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the cheese sauce before baking.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the cheese sauce before baking.
- Top the gratin with sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers before baking.
Tips and tricks:
- Grate the cheese finely for a smoother sauce.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the gratin is not browning on top, broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the cheese sauce reaches a temperature of at least 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Formaggio di Montagna di Sesto is a hard, aged cheese from the Sesto Dolomites in Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Rich and creamy cheese sauce with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
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Region: Italian