Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Tecula Mecula cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. 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, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the Tecula Mecula cheese and cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 570mg
Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tecula Mecula cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese, such as gouda or fontina.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other sharp cheese, such as parmesan or asiago.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a meaty twist.
- Top the mac and cheese with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mix in cooked broccoli or peas for a veggie-packed version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a whisk to ensure that the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored 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 and cozy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the mac and cheese with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the mac and cheese with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic roasted green beans
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 sauce or a splash of milk.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Tecula Mecula cheese is a semi-soft cheese from Mexico that is similar to queso blanco. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a creamy texture that makes it perfect for melting into dishes like mac and cheese.
Flavor profiles:
This mac and cheese has a rich and creamy cheese sauce with a smoky, slightly spicy flavor from the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mac and cheese as a main dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or barbecue.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Rich, Savory, Comforting