Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped herbs (optional, such as basil or oregano) for seasoning
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- Boil the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and mix to create a roux (thickening agent).
- Gradually add the milk and stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. Remove from heat.
- Add the beaten eggs and mix well. Then add the shredded cheese and stir until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: approximately 400 calories per serving (depending on the type of cheese used)
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 16g
Fiber: 2g (approx.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Comfort food classic with a creamy, rich cheese sauce.
- Ideal for family meals or gatherings.
- Can be customized with different types of cheese for varying flavors.
User Comments:
- "This is a great dish for a family meal! My kids loved it." - John Doe, Parent
- "The cheese sauce was so creamy and delicious! Will make again." - Jane Smith, Food Lover
- "Added some chopped chives for a pop of flavor - turned out great!" - Michael Johnson, Chef Enthusiast
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use full-fat milk for richer, creamier sauce texture.
- Watch the heat when cooking the roux to avoid burning.
- Be sure to stir continuously when adding milk to prevent lumps from forming.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
