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 garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 pieces string cheese, cut into small pieces
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- Whisk or wooden spoon for stirring the sauce
- Baking dish for baking the mac and cheese
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan and stir to combine.
7. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
9. Add the cooked macaroni and string cheese pieces to the saucepan and stir until everything is well combined.
10. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 600
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 900mg
Sugar: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of mozzarella and cheddar.
- You can use skim milk instead of whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a veggie version.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk or wooden spoon to stir the cheese sauce to prevent lumps.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
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 fancy presentation.
- Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or chopped herbs for added texture and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Crumbled bacon
- Grated parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk to the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting