Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch 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, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Cook sauce for 5-7 minutes until thickened, stirring frequently.
7. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
8. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce and stir to combine.
9. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
10. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
12. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 570
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 87mg
Sodium: 490mg
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Other types of cheese can be used instead of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or chicken to the mac and cheese for a protein boost.
- Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
- Add diced tomatoes, green chilies, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of pasta shapes to make the dish more interesting.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese 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.
- Top the mac and cheese with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added color and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives
- Crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Crumbled bacon or diced ham
Pairings:
- Serve mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer, such as a pilsner.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- 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 milk to moisten it.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the mac and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese has been a popular dish in the United States since the 1800s, when it was introduced by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish for a barbecue or potluck.
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
Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting