Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red chili powder. Stir until well combined.
5. Cook the cheese sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the cheese sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 620mg
Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar cheese.
- You can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty twist.
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for extra heat.
- Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Use a high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- If the breadcrumbs are not browning, you can broil the mac and cheese for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the mac and cheese with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Food history:
Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations.
Flavor profiles:
This recipe has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a spicy kick from the red chili powder.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.
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