Pasta

Queso de Sahún and Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups shredded Queso de Sahún cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- 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 large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.

5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Add the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the sauce. Stir in the Queso de Sahún cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

7. Add the cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

8. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 670
- Fat: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 25g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queso de Sahún cheese can be substituted with any other type of melting cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of sharp cheese, such as Parmesan or Asiago.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
- Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

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 the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as 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 or cream to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese sauce or a splash of milk.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
- Mac and cheese has been a popular dish in America since the 1800s, and has since become a staple comfort food.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, salty, smoky.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.

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Taste: Rich, Savory, Cheesy, Smoky, Creamy