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 dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Texas Pete hot sauce
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish for baking mac and cheese
- Whisk for stirring cheese sauce
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add Texas Pete hot sauce and stir to combine.
6. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 650
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 1260mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni can be substituted with any pasta shape.
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat milk or almond milk.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add chopped jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy version.
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for a savory version.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth before adding the macaroni.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage instructions:
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
Serve mac and cheese 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 or cream.
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese or flour.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni and cheese to 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:
This mac and cheese recipe has a creamy and cheesy flavor with a spicy kick from the Texas Pete hot sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve mac and cheese as a main dish or as a side dish for a barbecue or potluck.
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