Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- 9x13 baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Add macaroni and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain and set aside.
5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
7. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika and whisk until combined.
8. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
9. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
10. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, pepper, and salt.
11. Add macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until combined.
12. Pour into a 9x13 baking dish.
13. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 6-8
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 519
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the macaroni, you can substitute any type of small pasta such as shells, rotini, or elbows.
- For the butter, you can substitute vegan margarine or olive oil.
- For the milk, you can substitute almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
- For the cheeses, you can substitute any type of shredded cheese such as mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Gouda.
Variations:
- For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- For a creamy version, add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese and add 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast.
Tips and Tricks:
- To prevent the cheese sauce from becoming too thick, add a splash of milk when stirring in the cheese.
- To prevent the macaroni from becoming too mushy, make sure to cook it al dente.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions.
Pairings:
Pair with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Baked potatoes
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the macaroni is too mushy, make sure to cook it al dente.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.
Food History:
Macaroni and cheese is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 1800s. It has since become a popular comfort food around the world.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of smokiness from the smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting