Macaroni and Cheese for One

Ingredients and Weight:

• Macaroni pasta: 50g (dry weight)
• Cheddar cheese: 100g (grated)
• Cream cheese: 50g (cubed)
• Butter: 25g
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Black pepper: a dash
• Milk or cream: 1 cup
• Breadcrumbs (optional): 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

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

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni pasta until tender, then drain the water.
2. In a separate pot, melt the butter and add the cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the grated cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted.
4. Pour the milk or cream into the cheese mixture and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir well to combine.
6. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
7. Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes or until the top becomes golden and slightly crispy.

Nutritional Information: (Please note that these are estimated values and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approx. 450 calories per serving (assuming a small to medium-sized serving)
• Carbohydrates: Macaroni pasta is a good source of carbs.
• Fat: High in fat due to cheese and butter content.
• Protein: Cheese is a good source of protein.

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich in flavor due to the combination of cheeses.
• Can be customized with different types of cheese to achieve different flavors.
• Comfort food that is enjoyed by people of different ages.

User Comments:

1. "This is a great dish for a quick and easy meal. The flavors are amazing!" - John Doe
2. "I love how creamy and cheesy this macaroni is. It's delicious!" - Jane Smith
3. "This dish is perfect for a lazy weekend afternoon." - Bob Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure that the pasta is cooked to the desired texture, but not overcooked as it may become mushy.
• Adjust the seasoning according to personal preference.
• For a more indulgent version, you can use full-fat cream cheese and whole milk. For a lighter option, use low-fat alternatives.