Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups smoked Ardrahan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup chives, chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the smoked Ardrahan cheese until melted.
6. Add the cooked macaroni and chopped chives to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 597
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 732mg
- Sugar: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smoked Ardrahan cheese can be substituted with smoked Gouda or smoked cheddar cheese.
- Chives can be substituted with green onions or parsley.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reserve some of the shredded cheese to sprinkle on top of the mac and cheese before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover mac and cheese 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, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped chives or parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Irish