Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 natural cigar leaves, finely chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the 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.
4. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until well combined.
7. Cook the cheese sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until thick and bubbly.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and chopped cigar leaves.
9. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish.
11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
13. Let the mac and cheese cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 590
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 970mg
Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar.
- You can omit the cilantro if you don't like it.
- You can omit the cigar leaves if you don't want the smoky flavor.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty version.
- Add diced tomatoes and green chilies for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Add cooked spinach or broccoli for a healthier version.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use a good-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the cheese sauce or it will become too thick and clumpy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and is easier to cut.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat in the microwave, place a serving of mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- To reheat in the oven, place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for extra crunch.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped cigar leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Chopped cigar leaves
- Breadcrumbs
- Crushed crackers
Pairings:
- Grilled or roasted meats, such as steak or chicken
- Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a little more cheese sauce or milk to moisten it.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese sauce to the proper temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that originated in the 18th century.
- The dish became popular during the Great Depression because it was cheap and easy to make.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
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