Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Irish porter cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Gouda cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Oven-safe 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 from skillet and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until mixture is smooth and thickened.
6. Add shredded Irish porter cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and Gouda cheese to the saucepan, stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Add cooked macaroni and cooked bacon to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
9. Transfer mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 650mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Irish porter cheese, you can use any other type of beer cheese or even regular cheddar cheese.
- Instead of Gouda cheese, you can use any other type of creamy cheese like Brie or Camembert.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a protein boost.
- Add chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pasta like penne or fusilli.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy so it adds a nice crunch to the mac and cheese.
- Use a whisk to make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Don't overcook the pasta or it will become mushy in the oven.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Top with extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic roasted green beans
- Caesar salad
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 sauce or a splash of milk.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food, but this recipe puts a twist on it with the addition of Irish porter cheese and bacon.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight out of the oven.
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Region: Irish