Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Emmental cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced cooked bacon
- 1/2 cup diced cooked apples
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- 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. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Add Parmesan, Gouda, Emmental, and Cheddar cheeses to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked bacon, apples, caramelized onions, and mashed potatoes to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
9. Pour mac and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 33g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Any type of cheese can be used instead of the ones listed in the recipe.
- Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used instead of regular bacon.
- Any type of apple can be used instead of Granny Smith apples.
- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of mashed potatoes.
Variations:
- Add cooked sausage or ground beef to the mac and cheese mixture.
- Use different types of vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed mushrooms.
- Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips before baking.
- Make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until al dente so that it doesn't become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Caramelize the onions ahead of time to save time.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for an easy addition to the mac and cheese.
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 with chopped fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed mushrooms, green beans, or a Caesar salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out. If it's too thin, add more cheese.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the macaroni and bacon to the proper temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
Himmel und Erde, which means "heaven and earth" in German, is a traditional dish made with mashed potatoes and apples. This recipe combines those flavors with mac and cheese for a unique twist.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, salty, sweet, savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a holiday meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: German
Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting