Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup 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
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk for stirring cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 605
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 98mg
Sodium: 1034mg
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta you like instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese you like instead of cheddar and Parmesan.
- You can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the macaroni and cheese for a meaty twist.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F. Cover the macaroni and cheese with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the macaroni and cheese with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries. The dish originated in Italy, where it was known as maccheroni al formaggio. It was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson, who fell in love with the dish while traveling in Europe.
Flavor profiles:
This macaroni and cheese has a rich and creamy cheese sauce with a hint of spice from the cayenne pepper and nutmeg.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a main dish for a cozy family dinner, or as a side dish for a potluck or holiday gathering.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Rich, Comforting