Ingredients and Weight:
- Elbow Macaroni: 500g (1 pound)
- Cheddar Cheese: 250g (9 oz)
- Non-Fat Milk: 500ml (2 cups)
- Butter: 50g (2 oz)
- All-Purpose Flour: 50g (4 oz)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Breadcrumbs: 100g (3.5 oz) for topping (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total: 60 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and mix well to make a roux (thickening agent).
- Pour in the non-fat milk slowly, while stirring continuously, until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened.
- Add the cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Optionally, top with breadcrumbs and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbling and slightly golden on top.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on the given ingredients)
- Calories: Approx. 500 calories per serving (without breadcrumbs)
- Fat: Approx. 25g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 60g
- Protein: Approx. 20g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich in flavor due to the cheese sauce.
- Healthier option with non-fat milk and moderate use of butter.
- Can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
User Comments:
- "This is a great healthier version of mac and cheese! The non-fat milk really helps reduce the guilt factor." - John Doe, New York, USA.
- "The breadcrumbs on top add a nice crunchy texture to the dish." - Jane Smith, California, USA.
- "This dish is perfect for a family meal or even for a small gathering with friends." - Michael Johnson, Texas, USA.
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni to the right texture so it doesn't become too soft or too hard.
- Use a good quality cheddar cheese for best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
