Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups shredded Kwaito cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Oven-safe baking dish
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 and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
4. Gradually whisk in whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Cook, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded Kwaito cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Pour mac and cheese into an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 800
- Fat: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Kwaito cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese, such as Colby or Pepper Jack.
- Bacon can be substituted with cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham.
Variations:
- Add diced jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
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 cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
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 to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or a splash of milk.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and bacon to the proper temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been around since the 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, salty, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight out of the oven.
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Region: South African