Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Add the garlic powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
6. Add the smoked cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
12. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smoked cheddar cheese can be substituted with regular cheddar cheese or any other smoked cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Add chopped spinach or broccoli for a healthier version.
- Use different herbs and spices for different flavor profiles.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or clumping.
- Use a good quality smoked cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- For a creamier mac and cheese, use heavy cream instead of whole milk.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers 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 more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped scallions for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs
- Chopped scallions
- Crumbled bacon
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete 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 make it creamier.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until it is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
- Smoky
- Cheesy
- Herby
- Garlicky
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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