Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup Knockdrinna Gold cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Saucepan
- Colander
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the whole milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the grated Knockdrinna Gold cheese, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
7. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is coated evenly.
8. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 580
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 660mg
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Knockdrinna Gold cheese can be substituted with any other type of gold-infused cheese.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of sharp cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any other type of hard cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for a vegetarian version.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk. If it's too thin, add more cheese.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the macaroni until it's al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish.
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