Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g macaroni pasta
- 50g unsalted butter
- 50g plain flour
- 500ml whole milk
- 2 tbsp Marmite
- 200g cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 the oven to 180°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. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the Marmite and continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the grated cheddar cheese to the sauce and whisk until melted and smooth.
6. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 180°C
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 500
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar.
- If you don't have Marmite, you can use Vegemite or any other yeast extract spread.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the macaroni and cheese mixture for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the macaroni and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Crumbled bacon or ham
- Sliced jalapeños
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or beer.
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:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Macaroni and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson in the late 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, umami
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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