Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons garlic pepper sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Baking dish
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 pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the grated cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese, and whisk until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in the garlic pepper sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 600
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 600mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar and parmesan.
- You can use any type of hot sauce instead of garlic pepper sauce.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a colorful version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Use a baking dish that is deep enough to hold all the mac and cheese.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese 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 fancy presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Crumbled bacon or diced ham
- Diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Grilled chicken
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese or flour.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent overcooking.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and peppery.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or a 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