Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe from USA
Introduction
Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many. This creamy and cheesy pasta bake is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a family gathering.
History
Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish in American cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Italy, where pasta and cheese were commonly eaten together. The dish made its way to America with European immigrants and quickly became a staple in households across the country.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup of butter
- 0.5 cup of flour
- 3 cups of milk
- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 0.5 tsp of dry mustard
- 0.5 tsp of pepper
- 1 tsp of worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 package (8 oz or 227 g) of bite sized macaroni
- 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese
- bread crumbs
How to prepare
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan.
- Blend in flour and gradually add the milk, stirring constantly. Add the seasonings.
- Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add one cup of grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Cook the macaroni as directed, drain, and add it to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish or pan.
- Sprinkle the top with 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and place it under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Variations
- Add in cooked vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese such as Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- For extra flavor, add in some cooked bacon or diced ham to the cheese sauce.
- To make the dish extra creamy, use a combination of different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyere, or fontina.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Baking, broiling
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Substitute whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the dish up until the baking step, cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 400 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 25 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese contains approximately 15 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk, cheese) and wheat (flour, macaroni) allergens.
Summary
Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in calories and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
Summary
Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. Martha was known for her delicious meals and always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on tea, she suddenly pulled out a well-worn recipe card from her recipe box.
"I have a special treat for you today, my dear," Martha said with a twinkle in her eye. "I want to share with you my recipe for Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese. It's a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings."
I eagerly leaned in as she began to read off the ingredients and instructions. The rich blend of cheeses, the creamy sauce, and the crispy golden topping had my mouth watering in anticipation. Martha explained how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.
As Martha walked me through the steps of preparing the dish, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill in the kitchen. She moved with such grace and confidence, effortlessly measuring out ingredients and stirring the sauce to perfection. I made mental notes of each step, determined to recreate this delectable dish in my own kitchen.
After the macaroni and cheese had baked to a golden perfection in the oven, Martha served up generous portions for us to enjoy. The first bite was pure bliss - the creamy cheese sauce melted in my mouth, while the crispy topping added a delightful crunch. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.
Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe for Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I experimented with different types of cheeses, varied the seasonings, and even added in some crispy bacon bits for an extra burst of flavor. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that sunny afternoon in Martha's kitchen, where I had first been introduced to the magic of this comforting meal.
As I shared the recipe with friends and family, it became a beloved favorite among all who tried it. I would often receive requests to bring my Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese to potlucks and gatherings, where it never failed to impress. The dish became a symbol of warmth and love, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a simple meal shared with those we hold dear.
As the years went by, I continued to cherish the recipe for Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese, passing it down to my own children and grandchildren. I taught them the same steps that Martha had taught me, watching with pride as they too fell in love with the dish. It became a tradition in our family, a dish that brought us together and filled our hearts with happiness.
And so, as I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing yet another batch of Golden Baked Macaroni and Cheese, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy into my life. It is more than just a dish - it is a symbol of love, connection, and the timeless tradition of passing down recipes from one generation to the next. And for that, I am truly thankful.
Categories
| American Recipes | Casserole Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Macaroni And Cheese Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | World Recipes |