Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g macaroni pasta
- 100g unsalted butter
- 100g plain flour
- 1 litre whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 300g grated Lincolnshire Poacher cheese
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 50g breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
7. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Add the grated Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
9. Add the cooked macaroni pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish.
11. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
14. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 600
Fat per serving: 30g
Carbohydrates per serving: 55g
Protein per serving: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lincolnshire Poacher cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese or any other hard cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a vegetable version.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or blue cheese, for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- 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:
To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Lincolnshire Poacher cheese is a hard cheese made in Lincolnshire, England. It is similar in flavor to cheddar cheese but has a nuttier and sweeter taste.
Flavor profiles:
The Lincolnshire Poacher cheese adds a nutty and savory flavor to the mac and cheese, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
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Region: English