Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 550
- Total fat: 29g
- Saturated fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total carbohydrates: 47g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add cooked broccoli or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Add diced tomatoes or jalapeños for a spicy version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
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, place the macaroni and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Crumbled bacon
- Diced tomatoes
Pairings:
- Green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or 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.
Food history:
- Macaroni and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Cheesy
- Savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight out of the oven.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting