Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni pasta - 400 grams
- Cheddar cheese - 250 grams (shredded)
- Butter - 50 grams
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Milk - 500 milliliters
- All-purpose flour - 3 tablespoons
- Breadcrumbs (optional) - 50 grams for topping
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Boil the macaroni pasta in salted water until slightly undercooked, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and mix well to form a roux.
- Pour in the milk gradually, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Add the shredded cheese and stir until fully melted.
- Season with salt and pepper (if using).
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
- Calories: approximately 500 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Comfort food classic with a creamy, rich cheese sauce.
- Perfect for all ages, especially children who love pasta and cheese.
- Can be customized with different types of cheese or toppings.
User Comments:
- "This dish brought back so many childhood memories! It's creamy and delicious." - John Smith, New York, USA
- "Easy to make and a crowd favorite at our family gatherings." - Sarah Johnson, Los Angeles, USA
- "I love how creamy the cheese sauce is. This is a must-try for all macaroni lovers." - Michael Davis, Chicago, USA
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use full-fat milk or cheese for a richer flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable-based butter and milk.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
