Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup Tabasco sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and Tabasco sauce. Whisk until well combined.
6. Add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish.
9. In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of cheddar and Parmesan.
- You can use any type of hot sauce instead of Tabasco.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add cooked vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for a healthier version.
- Use different types of cheese for a more complex flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use whole milk for a creamier sauce.
- Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to your taste.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any 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 fresh parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food History:
- Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, spicy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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