Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 16 oz shredded cheese (cheddar or mixed cheese preferred)
- 3 cups milk
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped fine
- Optional: bacon bits or cooked ham for added flavor and texture
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni until it is tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the flour and mix well to form a roux (a paste-like mixture).
- Slowly add the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it thicken.
- Add the shredded cheese and stir until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with bacon bits or cooked ham if desired.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: approx. 400 calories per serving (depending on additional toppings)
Fat: approx. 20g
Carbohydrates: approx. 40g
Protein: approx. 15g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Classic American comfort food
- Creamy and rich cheese sauce
- Carbs from macaroni and cheese provide a satisfying meal
- Can be customized with different toppings or additions for variety
User Comments:
- "This is just like my mom used to make! So creamy and delicious."
- "Added some diced cooked chicken for extra protein - really made this dish stand out."
- "I used a mix of cheeses for a more interesting flavor profile - great dish!"
- "A classic that never gets old."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use a good quality cheese for the best flavor and texture in the final dish.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon bits or cooked ham.
