Ingredients and Weight:
- 500g dried macaroni
- 500g white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 400ml milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped cooked vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas)
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°F.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk and continue stirring until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Add the cheese, salt, mustard, and nutmeg, and stir until the cheese is completely melted.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and the chopped cooked vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, based on 8 servings total)
- Calories: Approx. 500-600 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is a classic American comfort food that combines the flavors of cheese and pasta.
- The use of white cheddar cheese gives it a creamy and rich taste that is popular among Americans.
- The addition of cooked vegetables adds a touch of color and nutrition to the dish.
- It is easy to customize with different vegetables or even meats, making it a versatile dish.
User Comments:
- "This dish was so delicious! The cheese was creamy and the macaroni was cooked perfectly."
- "I added some diced ham to this dish and it was a hit with my family. A great way to use up leftover ham."
- "I love how easy this dish is to make. It's a great weeknight meal that doesn't skimp on flavor."
- "The addition of nutmeg gave this dish a unique flavor that I really enjoyed."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni to the desired tenderness, as overcooking can make it too soft.
- Use full-fat milk for a richer dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use skim milk.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more salt or mustard if desired.