Pasta

Nonnette's Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and pepper and whisk until combined. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

6. Pour the macaroni into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir to combine.

7. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 6

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 545
Fat: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 43 g
Protein: 22 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the macaroni, you can use any type of small pasta such as shells, rotini, or penne.
- For the butter, you can use margarine or olive oil.
- For the milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk.
- For the cheddar cheese, you can use any type of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Gouda.
- For the Parmesan cheese, you can use any type of hard cheese such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano.

Variations:
- For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- For a creamier version, add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
- For a healthier version, use whole wheat macaroni and low-fat milk.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese and use vegan cheese.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Garnishes:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.

Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food History:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by early settlers.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting, Rich