Pasta

Queso de La Peral Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 8 ounces Queso de La Peral cheese, grated
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°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. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes until mixture thickens.
5. Add grated Queso de La Peral and cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 625
- Fat: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Protein: 26g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queso de La Peral cheese can be substituted with any blue cheese.
- Sharp cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheddar cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy version.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or fusilli.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Grate the cheese yourself for better melting and flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.

Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight out of the oven.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Rich, Comforting