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 Seirass Stagionato cheese, grated
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Whisk until well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Seirass Stagionato cheese and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
9. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
13. Let the mac and cheese cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 540
Fat per serving: 31g
Carbohydrates per serving: 41g
Protein per serving: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Seirass Stagionato cheese can be substituted with Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Sharp cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheddar cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty version.
- Mix in cooked broccoli or spinach for a healthier version.
- Top the mac and cheese with sliced tomatoes or jalapeños for a colorful version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the mac and cheese with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add a bit more cheese sauce or milk to moisten it.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store leftover mac and cheese in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftover mac and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Food History:
Seirass Stagionato cheese is a traditional Italian cheese made from the whey of cow's milk. It is aged for at least 6 months, giving it a sharp and nutty flavor.
Flavor Profiles:
The Seirass Stagionato cheese adds a nutty and sharp flavor to the mac and cheese, while the sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy and creamy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Seirass Stagionato Mac and Cheese as a main dish for a cozy family dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or holiday gathering.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting