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 Smântână (sour cream can be substituted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
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 skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns golden brown.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, Smântână, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.
6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Pour mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- 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: 619
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Sour cream can be substituted for Smântână.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Other types of cheese can be used instead of cheddar and Parmesan.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or green chilies for a spicy twist.
- Use different types of cheese or add more cheese for a cheesier flavor.
- Add cooked chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Don't overcook the macaroni or it will become mushy.
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 more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh 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.
- If the macaroni is too dry, add more cheese sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon and macaroni to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Macaroni and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly straight from the oven.
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