Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
5. Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 590
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 1030mg
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add cooked broccoli or peas for a veggie version.
- Add hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to salt the pasta water generously for added flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored 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 cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Top with chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, add a little more cheese or flour to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until it is al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, savory
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting