Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 8 oz Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup all-purpose cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, optional
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until smooth to make a roux (thickening agent).
- Pour in the cream and milk, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the mixture becomes thick.
- Add the shredded Cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni and bacon to the cheese sauce, and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top starts to turn golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh herbs (if using) and serve hot.
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 500-600 (depending on additional ingredients)
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is a classic American comfort food, rich and creamy with a cheesy, bacon-y flavor.
- The combination of Cheddar cheese and bacon gives it a savory taste that is loved by many Americans.
- It's a great dish for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
User Comments:
- "This dish was amazing! The combination of cheese and bacon was spot on."
- "The macaroni was cooked to perfection, and the cheese sauce was so creamy and delicious."
- "I added some extra bacon for a stronger flavor - turned out great!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use good quality Cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- If you want to add more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or ham cubes to the mix.
- This dish is quite rich, so it's recommended to serve it with some fresh vegetables or a light salad for balance.
