Pasta

Turrialba Cheese and Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Turrialba cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Oven

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 large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add shredded Turrialba cheese and cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
8. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the 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: 35 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 527
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 77mg
Sodium: 794mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 23g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Turrialba cheese can be substituted with any other semi-hard cheese, such as Gouda or Edam.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other sharp cheese, such as Parmesan or Asiago.
- Bacon can be substituted with ham or pancetta.
- Whole milk can be substituted with 2% or skim milk.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- 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 in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a cute and cozy presentation.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk.
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more cheese or milk.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the bacon and pasta to the recommended temperatures to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
Mac and cheese has been a popular comfort food in the United States since the 1800s.

Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, salty, smoky.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and bubbly for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Bacon, Rich, Bacon-Y