Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup Herzegovina squeaky cheese, grated
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon and onion
- 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 large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Add grated Herzegovina squeaky cheese and cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted and smooth.
8. Season cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
10. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
11. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni.
12. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 545
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon.
- Any type of onion can be used instead of diced onion.
- Any type of cheese can be used instead of Herzegovina squeaky cheese and cheddar cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet to prevent excess grease from getting into the macaroni.
- Grate the cheese before making the sauce to ensure it melts smoothly.
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 more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- If the macaroni is too dry, add more cheese sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon and onion to the proper temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Herzegovina squeaky cheese is a traditional cheese from the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a semi-hard cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a slightly tangy flavor.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, salty, smoky
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot out of the oven for maximum cheesy goodness.
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Region: Bosnian