Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups grated Prima Donna cheese
- 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
5. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Add the grated Prima Donna, Gouda, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
12. Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 623
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 117mg
Sodium: 691mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Prima Donna cheese can be substituted with Gruyere cheese.
- Gouda cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the macaroni and cheese for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the macaroni or it will become mushy.
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.
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 until heated through. Alternatively, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the macaroni and cheese with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic roasted potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, add a bit more milk to the cheese sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make 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 originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 1700s. It became a popular comfort food during the Great Depression and is now a staple in American cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, savory, slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or holiday gathering.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting