Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves smoked garlic, minced
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the smoked garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
6. Gradually whisk in the milk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni, cooked bacon, and chopped parsley to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smoked garlic can be substituted with regular garlic.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for added texture.
- Don't overcook the macaroni or it will become mushy.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or additional bacon.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Additional bacon
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 mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and bacon to the proper temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy and was brought to the United States by Thomas Jefferson.
Flavor profiles:
- Smoky, cheesy, savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish.
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