Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded Matusco Magro cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until combined.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and shredded Matusco Magro cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
11. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly 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: 35-40 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 610
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 810mg
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty twist.
- Stir in some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for extra flavor.
- Add some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top of the mac and cheese for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the mac and cheese with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly and discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
Mac and cheese is a classic American dish that has been around for centuries. It originated in Europe, but became popular in the United States during the 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, smoky, spicy
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish for a family dinner or potluck.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting