Gourmet Macaroni and Cheese with a Twist
Macaroni and Cheese for Grownups
Description
This sophisticated version of a classic comfort food elevates the beloved macaroni and cheese to new heights, perfect for those who appreciate a rich, creamy dish without the overly processed flavor often associated with boxed varieties. Whether you choose traditional elbow macaroni or opt for another delightful small pasta like shells or spirals, this recipe promises to satisfy your cheese cravings with layers of flavor that tantalize the palate.
Recipe Details
| Category | Cheese |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Rating | 4.5/5 (4 Reviews) |
Keywords
| Keywords |
|---|
| < 60 Mins |
| Oven |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 780.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 90.6 mg |
| Sodium | 2129.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 78.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g |
| Sugars | 9.8 g |
| Protein | 37.4 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | tablespoons unsalted butter |
| ½ | yellow onion, finely chopped |
| 2 | cloves garlic, minced |
| 2 | tablespoons flour |
| 2 | cups 2% low-fat milk |
| 2 | tablespoons white wine vinegar |
| 1 | teaspoon kosher salt |
| 1 | teaspoon fresh ground pepper |
| ½ | teaspoon white pepper (optional) |
| ¼ | teaspoon Tabasco sauce |
| 3 | cups mixed cheeses (sharp cheddar, blue cheese, Swiss) |
| 2 | cups elbow macaroni |
| 1 | cup fresh parmesan cheese, grated |
| ¼ | cup bread crumbs (for topping) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat, allowing it to foam and bubble gently without browning. This will be the foundation for your creamy sauce.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. Avoid browning the onions to ensure a delicate flavor.
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Add the Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, being cautious not to let it brown as it can become bitter. The aroma will become fragrant and inviting.
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Whisk in the Flour: Gradually whisk in the flour to the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about three minutes to cook off the raw flour taste, which can be quite unpleasant if left uncooked.
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Create the Sauce: Next, slowly whisk in the 2% low-fat milk, ensuring a smooth consistency without lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to bubble gently, indicating that it is beginning to thicken.
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Add the Vinegar: Once it reaches the desired thickness, carefully add the white wine vinegar while continuing to whisk. This step is crucial as the heat of the milk prevents curdling, and the vinegar brightens the sauce with a tangy flavor.
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Season to Taste: Add kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. For those who prefer a smoother sauce without dark flecks, you can substitute white pepper for the black pepper. A dash of Tabasco sauce adds a lovely kick; taste the sauce and adjust the heat level according to your preference.
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Incorporate the Peppers: For an extra layer of flavor and heat, stir in your choice of chopped pepperoncinis or jalapeños. This is an opportunity to personalize your dish—experiment with the amount to find your perfect balance.
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Add the Cheeses: Stir in your selection of cheeses until they are thoroughly melted and combined. A classic combination includes sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, crumbled blue cheese for richness, and a creamy cheese like Fontina for texture. You may also choose to mix in Monterey Jack for creaminess if you desire.
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Cook the Pasta: While you prepare the sauce, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water, and set it aside.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cooked macaroni into a large baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, gently mixing to ensure that every piece is well-coated in the rich, creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Prepare for Baking: Sprinkle the top of the macaroni and cheese with the grated fresh parmesan cheese and evenly distribute the bread crumbs for a delightful crunchy topping.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the macaroni and cheese for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, creating an inviting crust that promises a satisfying bite.
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Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for easier portioning.
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Enjoy: With its creamy texture and sophisticated blend of flavors, this grown-up macaroni and cheese will redefine your expectations for this classic dish, making it an irresistible option that you may never again consider boxed mac-n-cheese.
Conclusion
This Macaroni and Cheese for Grownups recipe exemplifies how a simple dish can be transformed into a gourmet experience with the right ingredients and techniques. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy, leaving you and your guests craving more. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
