Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni - 400 grams
- Cheddar Cheese - 200 grams, shredded
- Cream Cheese - 100 grams
- Milk - 500 ml
- Butter - 50 grams
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (or as per taste)
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Breadcrumbs - 50 grams (optional, for topping)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the macaroni in salted water until slightly undercooked, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Saute for a minute.
- Pour the milk and let it come to a boil. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the shredded cheese and stir until fully combined. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top starts to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Fat: 36 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Sodium: 450 mg (depending on salt used)
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich texture due to the combination of cheeses and milk.
- American-style comfort food that is popular for family dinners or gatherings.
- Versatile dish that can be customized with additional ingredients like diced ham or vegetables.
User Comments:
- "This macaroni and cheese is delicious! The cream cheese gives it a smooth and creamy texture."
- "I added some diced ham and bell peppers for a different flavor, it was great!"
- "My family loved this dish, it was a hit at our dinner party."
- "Easy to make and the breadcrumbs on top added a nice crunch."
- "Make sure to use full-fat milk for the best flavor and texture."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use full-fat milk for a richer flavor and texture. Skim milk may result in a thinner sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- If you want to add vegetables or other ingredients, add them when cooking the macaroni or during the last step before baking.
