Home Style Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients and Weight:

• Macaroni - 500g
• Cheddar Cheese - 250g (grated)
• Milk - 500ml
• Butter - 50g
• Flour - 30g
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Breadcrumbs - 50g (for topping)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

[Level 3] - Moderate difficulty due to the need for precise timing and stirring.

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni until tender, then drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
4. Add the flour and mix well to form a smooth paste.
5. Slowly add the milk and keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
6. Add the grated cheese, salt, and pepper, and mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix well.
8. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: approximately 500 calories per serving (based on 8 servings)
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 25g (includes saturated fat)
• Depending on actual ingredients used, other nutritional elements may vary.

Dish Characteristics:

• Comfort food: Perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in.
• Creamy and rich: The combination of cheese and milk creates a creamy and rich dish that is satisfying and delicious.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different types of cheese or added toppings like bacon bits or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

User Comments:

1. "This is exactly how I remember my mom making it! So creamy and delicious."
2. "A classic dish that never gets old. My kids love it!"
3. "I added some chopped spinach for extra nutrition and it was still great."
4. "The breadcrumbs on top add a nice crunchy texture."
5. "Easy to make and a great dish for a weekend lunch."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Always follow cooking instructions for the macaroni to ensure it is not overcooked or undercooked.
• For a smoother sauce, use a blender or food processor to grate the cheese beforehand.
• Adjust the seasoning according to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.