Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 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
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped Schmitter sandwich meat
- 1/2 cup chopped pickles
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Wooden spoon or whisk for stirring
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
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 large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add chopped Schmitter sandwich meat, pickles, onions, and tomatoes to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
8. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 587
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 97mg
Sodium: 854mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any other pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat milk or cream.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Schmitter sandwich meat can be substituted with any other deli meat.
- Pickles, onions, and tomatoes can be omitted or substituted with other vegetables.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Add hot sauce or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
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 cute presentation.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese to thicken it up.
- If the top of the mac and cheese is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
The Schmitter sandwich is a famous sandwich from Philadelphia, consisting of steak, cheese, onions, tomatoes, and special sauce. This recipe is a twist on the classic sandwich, incorporating its flavors into a mac and cheese dish.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, smoky, tangy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting