Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded hoop cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Stir in the hoop cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 542
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 736mg
- Sugar: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Hoop cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese or any other type of cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese or any other type of hard cheese.
- Bacon can be substituted with ham or pancetta.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a whisk to make the cheese sauce smooth and creamy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or bacon bits.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Bacon bits
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory, and slightly smoky from the bacon.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight out of the oven for maximum comfort food vibes.
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