Simple Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients and Weight:

• Macaroni - 400 grams
• Cheddar Cheese - 200 grams (grated)
• Butter - 50 grams
• Milk - 500 milliliters
• All-purpose flour - 3 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Chicken broth or water - 1 cup (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
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. Pour in the milk slowly while stirring continuously to make a creamy sauce.
6. Add the grated cheese and stir until fully melted into the sauce.
7. Add the cooked macaroni, salt, and black pepper (if using) into the cheese sauce and mix well.
8. Transfer the mixture into an oven-friendly baking dish.
9. Optionally, you can add chicken broth or water to make the dish more flavorful and creamy.
10. Top with additional cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top becomes golden brown.

Nutritional Information: (Based on the given ingredients)

• Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving (based on 8 servings)
• Fat: 32 grams
• Carbohydrates: 63 grams
• Protein: 20 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Comfort food classic with a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
• Easy to customize with additional ingredients like vegetables or meats.
• Great for all ages, especially children who love pasta and cheese.

User Comments:

1. "This is a great recipe for a family meal. My kids loved it!" - John Doe
2. "Simple and delicious, just like how I remember macaroni and cheese from childhood." - Jane Smith
3. "Added some diced ham for extra flavor, turned out great!" - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use full-fat milk or cheese for a richer, creamier dish.
• Adjust the seasoning according to taste preference.
• If desired, you can add cooked vegetables or cooked meat like ham or chicken to enhance flavor and texture.