Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup diced Käsekrainer sausage
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow 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 until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni and diced Käsekrainer sausage to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Let the Käsekrainer Mac and Cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 650
Fat: 38g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- Substitute Käsekrainer sausage with any type of sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Use any type of cheese instead of cheddar and Gruyere.
Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Top with sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use freshly grated cheese for a better texture and flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover Käsekrainer Mac and Cheese 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 fancy presentation.
- Top with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Sliced jalapenos
- Cooked bacon or ham
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the Käsekrainer sausage to the recommended temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson.
- Käsekrainer sausage is a type of Austrian sausage that is filled with cheese.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Austrian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Comforting