Ingredients and Weight:
- Elbow Macaroni - 300 grams
- Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Jack, etc.) - 2 cups (or about 250 grams)
- Butter - 50 grams
- Milk - 1 cup
- Salt and Pepper - to taste
- Breadcrumbs - 50 grams (optional, for extra crunch)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 2: Moderate. This dish is easy to make, but requires attention to the cooking time and stirring to avoid burning.
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain the water and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
- Add the milk and continue stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and combine well.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top becomes golden and crunchy.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 450 per serving (based on a 4-person serving size)
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 18g
Dish Characteristics:
- Classic American comfort food with a creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
- Simple yet delicious dish that can be customized with different types of cheese or toppings as desired.
- Can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and easy meal.
User Comments:
- "This is the best Mac and Cheese I've ever made! So creamy and delicious."
- "This dish is so easy to make and my family loved it!"
- "I added some diced ham to this dish and it was a hit!"
- "Great dish for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion."
- "I love how customizable this dish is, I'll definitely make it again."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Always cook macaroni according to package instructions to ensure proper texture and avoid overcooking.
- When adding cheese, stir continuously to ensure the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
- If desired, you can add other ingredients such as diced ham, bacon bits, or even vegetables for additional flavor and texture.