Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of uncooked macaroni
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs
Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Medium pot
- 9x13 baking dish
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk until combined.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth.
5. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper and stir until combined.
6. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted.
7. In a medium pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
8. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain and add to the cheese sauce.
9. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top.
11. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
12. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 6-8
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 437
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 19g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the butter, you can use vegan butter or olive oil.
- For the milk, you can use almond milk or oat milk.
- For the cheddar cheese, you can use vegan cheese or any other type of cheese.
- For the panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- You can add cooked bacon or sausage to the mac and cheese for a heartier dish.
- You can add cooked vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for a healthier dish.
- You can add different types of cheese for a different flavor.
- You can add hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicier dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to avoid lumps.
- Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente for the best texture.
- Make sure to stir the macaroni and cheese before baking to ensure even cooking.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Top the mac and cheese with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives
- Toasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts
- Hot sauce or chili flakes
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Sauteed spinach
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Make sure to reheat the mac and cheese thoroughly before serving.
Food History:
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 18th century.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and onion. The panko breadcrumbs give it a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish is best served hot with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting, Rich