Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown on top.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 640
- Fat: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Add cooked broccoli or peas for a veggie version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the oven.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
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 in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Top with breadcrumbs or chopped herbs for added texture and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Crumbled bacon
- Hot sauce
Pairings:
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream until desired consistency is reached.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or milk.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory, slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting