Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups finely crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Special Equipment Needed:
- Small baking sheet
- Medium saucepan
- Medium bowl
- Large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a small baking sheet with butter.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until mixture is thick and bubbly.
4. Reduce heat to low and add cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted.
5. In a medium bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
6. In a large bowl, combine crushed pretzels and melted butter.
7. Dip macaroni and cheese bites into beaten eggs, then roll in pretzel mixture. Place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375 degrees F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Milk: almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk
- Cheddar cheese: any other type of cheese can be used
- Pretzels: crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
Variations:
- Add other seasonings to the cheese sauce, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika
- Add diced vegetables to the macaroni and cheese mixture
- Use different types of pretzels, such as honey wheat or sourdough
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to crush the pretzels into a fine crumb for the best texture
- Use a cookie scoop to make sure all the bites are the same size
- Let the macaroni and cheese bites cool before serving
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 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese bites on a platter with a side of ranch or marinara sauce.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a light salad or a bowl of soup.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the pretzel crust is not crunchy enough, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese bites until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Food History:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that has been around for centuries. The dish originated in Europe and was brought to the United States in the 1700s.
Flavor Profiles:
The mac and cheese bites have a creamy, cheesy flavor with a crunchy pretzel crust.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or a side dish.
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