Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups grated Pecorino Umbro cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
6. Cook, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
8. Stir in grated Pecorino Umbro cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish.
11. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Pecorino Umbro cheese can be substituted with any sharp cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and is easier to cut.
Storage instructions:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top of the mac and cheese for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or a splash of milk.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A