Frederic Melton
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, but what takes it to the next level is when it's crafted with care and elevated ingredients—artisan macaroni and cheese. This dish is all about the perfect combination of cheeses, resulting in an ultra-creamy and outrageously cheesy delight. The key to achieving this lies in the cheese sauce, which starts with a roux—equal parts butter and flour cooked to perfection. The magic happens when you whisk in cold milk, creating a smooth base for your cheeses to melt into. For the ultimate cheesy experience, a blend of three or more cheeses is essential. The pasta itself is also important; slightly undercooking it ensures it doesn't turn soggy when baked. To finish, a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs and Parmesan adds a golden, crispy contrast to the soft, cheesy pasta beneath.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Pasta | Elbow macaroni, Penne, or any tubular pasta |
| Toppings | Panko-Parmesan, Breadcrumbs, Olive oil |
| Number of Cheeses | 3 or more |
| Types of Cheese | Gruyère, Comté, Fontina, Deep Seneca Cheddar, Havarti, Smoked cheese, Jalapeño cheese |
| Sauce | Cheese sauce, Béchamel sauce |
| Other Ingredients | Butter, Flour, Milk, Olive oil, Nutmeg, Black pepper |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Macaroni type: elbow macaroni vs penne
Macaroni and cheese is a popular dish that can be made in a variety of ways, with different types of cheese and toppings. Elbow macaroni and penne pasta are two types of pasta that are commonly used in macaroni and cheese recipes.
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for macaroni and cheese. Its short, curved shape is perfect for holding the thick, creamy cheese sauce that is characteristic of the dish. Elbow macaroni is also a versatile pasta that can be used in a variety of other dishes, such as salads and casseroles. It is also often used in soups, as its small size makes it perfect for spoon-sized bites.
Penne pasta is a tubular-shaped pasta that can also be used in macaroni and cheese. Penne has a slightly different texture and appearance than elbow macaroni, but it can hold the cheese sauce well. Penne is also a versatile pasta that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, casseroles, and soups. It is a good choice for baked pasta dishes, as its shape holds up well during the baking process.
When it comes to the cheese sauce, a combination of cheeses is often used to create a rich and creamy sauce. Cheddar, Havarti, Gruyère, Comté, and fontina are just a few of the cheeses that can be used. It is important to add the cheese to the sauce after it has thickened, as adding it too early can result in a grainy sauce.
The topping for macaroni and cheese can also vary, but a crispy, golden crumbly topping is a popular choice. This can be made with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, and it adds a contrast in texture and flavour to the soft, cheesy pasta.
In conclusion, both elbow macaroni and penne pasta are suitable for making macaroni and cheese. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, as both have their own unique characteristics and benefits.
Bob Evans' Mac and Cheese: A Recipe Change?
You may want to see also
Cheese selection: three types of cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a dish that can be taken to the next level with the right combination of cheeses. Using three types of cheese is the secret to achieving the perfect macaroni and cheese.
Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of cheese for melting. A good melting cheese will act as the base of your cheese sauce, providing a creamy texture and a strong flavour. Cheddar is a popular choice for this, as its sharp flavour and smooth texture when melted create a delicious sauce. Other cheeses that melt well include Gruyère, a Swiss cheese with a slightly sweet and nutty flavour, and Havarti, a mild and creamy Danish cheese.
Secondly, you can add a cheese with a strong flavour to enhance the taste of your dish. Parmesan is an excellent choice for this, as it has a strong, salty flavour that can be sprinkled on top of the macaroni and cheese, adding a crispy texture and a flavour punch. Another option is Comté, a French cheese with a complex, nutty flavour that can be incorporated into the sauce or sprinkled on top.
Lastly, consider adding a unique cheese to give your macaroni and cheese a signature twist. Fontina, an Italian cheese with a creamy texture and slightly sweet and nutty flavour, is a wonderful addition to the sauce. Smoked cheeses, jalapeño cheeses, or any other flavoured cheese can also be used to add an unexpected element to your dish.
The key to successful cheese selection is to choose cheeses that complement each other and create a balanced flavour profile. Experiment with different combinations to find your favourite, whether it's a classic trio or a unique blend that showcases your creativity.
Mac and Cheese: How Long Does it Last?
You may want to see also
Breadcrumbs: panko vs regular
Artisan macaroni and cheese is a baked dish that uses penne pasta instead of the standard elbow macaroni. It is topped with a crisp panko-parmesan crust. Panko is a type of breadcrumb that is commonly used in Asian cuisine but has become popular in Western cooking as well. It has a light, airy, and delicate texture that crisps up beautifully when cooked. Its unique flakiness sets it apart from regular breadcrumbs, which tend to be ground more finely.
Panko is made from white bread, specifically bread without any crust, while regular breadcrumbs can be made from various types of bread, including wheat, white, rye, sourdough, or whole wheat flour. This difference in bread type also contributes to the textural contrast between panko and regular breadcrumbs.
Another distinction between panko and regular breadcrumbs is their oil absorption capacity. Panko absorbs less oil, resulting in a crunchier texture. This quality makes it ideal for simulating the taste of fried foods, such as panko-crusted crab cakes or casseroles. On the other hand, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a crispy coating for dishes like macaroni, meatballs, and meatloaf. They can also be sprinkled over recipes like a seasoning or mixed in more thoroughly.
When it comes to flavor, panko has very little to no flavor on its own. It is typically sold plain and unseasoned. In contrast, regular breadcrumbs can be found in various flavors, such as herbed, seasoned, or cheesy. This makes regular breadcrumbs a versatile option for adding flavor as well as texture to dishes.
In terms of usage, panko and regular breadcrumbs can often be used interchangeably, especially when creating a crunchy topping for casseroles like macaroni and cheese. However, their textural differences may be more suitable for specific applications. For example, panko's light and airy texture makes it perfect for breaded coatings, resulting in an extra crispy finish. Meanwhile, regular breadcrumbs can be used to create a crispy coating for baked or fried foods, although the resulting texture will be slightly less crackly than panko.
Macaroni Cheese: Healthy Comfort Food or Unhealthy Indulgence?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Toppings: Parmesan vs other
Artisan macaroni and cheese is a dish that can be made in a variety of ways, with different types of cheese, pasta, and toppings. While some recipes call for elbow macaroni, others suggest using penne pasta or any other tubular pasta. Similarly, while some recipes use three types of cheese, others use up to four.
When it comes to toppings, Parmesan is a popular choice and is often combined with breadcrumbs to create a crunchy, crispy, and buttery topping that adds texture and flavour to the dish. This topping is typically made by combining breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and olive oil, which is then sprinkled on top of the macaroni and cheese before baking. This creates a golden, crispy top that contrasts perfectly with the soft and cheesy pasta underneath.
However, there are also other topping options to consider. One alternative is to use a panko-Parmesan topping, which provides a crunchy texture similar to that of breadcrumbs. Panko is a type of Japanese breadcrumb that is larger, flakier, and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in an even crispier topping. This topping is made by combining panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and can also include other ingredients such as olive oil or butter.
Another option is to use a simple breadcrumb topping without Parmesan. This can be made by toasting breadcrumbs in butter or olive oil until they are golden and crispy, and then sprinkling them on top of the macaroni and cheese. This option is suitable for those who prefer a less cheesy topping or want to highlight the flavour of the cheese sauce.
Additionally, there are more creative topping options to explore. For example, one recipe suggests adding cooked onions, bacon, and escarole (a type of bitter green) that have been sweated in olive oil. This topping adds a savoury and slightly crunchy element to the dish, creating a unique flavour profile. Another option is to use a combination of shredded cheeses as a topping, creating an extra cheesy and gooey layer on top of the pasta.
In conclusion, while Parmesan is a popular and classic choice for a macaroni and cheese topping, there are several other options to consider. Each topping has its own unique characteristics and can enhance the dish in different ways. Whether it's the crunch of panko, the simplicity of breadcrumbs, or the creativity of alternative toppings, there are numerous ways to elevate this comfort food classic.
Mac and Cheese: A Comforting Solution
You may want to see also
Baking: temperature and time
Baking is a crucial step in making macaroni and cheese, as it ensures the dish is cooked through, develops a crispy top, and allows the flavours to meld together. Here are some detailed instructions on baking temperature and time for achieving the perfect baked macaroni and cheese:
Baking Temperature:
The ideal baking temperature for macaroni and cheese is typically between 350 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Most recipes recommend preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is sufficient to cook the dish evenly without burning the top. However, some recipes suggest starting at a lower temperature and then increasing it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit towards the end of the baking process to achieve a golden brown crust.
Baking Time:
The baking time for macaroni and cheese can vary depending on the recipe and desired level of doneness. Most recipes recommend baking the dish for around 20 to 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you are baking at a higher temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, the baking time may be shorter, around 10 to 15 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the dish and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the top is browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Preventing Overcooking:
To prevent overcooking the macaroni, it is crucial to undercook it slightly before baking. Boil the pasta until it is still quite firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures that the pasta does not become mushy and unpleasant. Additionally, be mindful of the baking time and check on the dish regularly to avoid overcooking.
Achieving a Crispy Top:
The signature crispy top of macaroni and cheese is achieved by baking the dish uncovered towards the end of the baking process. After baking covered for the majority of the time, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to promote browning and crisping. This step adds texture and flavour to the dish, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy top and creamy interior.
Adjustments and Variations:
Baking time and temperature may vary depending on personal preferences and the specific recipe used. Some recipes call for broiling or increasing the oven temperature at the end of the baking process to achieve a crispier top. Additionally, the type of cheese used, the ratio of cheese to pasta, and the addition of other ingredients can impact the baking time and temperature. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the dish and adjust the baking time and temperature as needed to ensure the desired results.
Mac and Cheese: Junk Food or Healthy Treat?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Artisan macaroni and cheese is a baked dish made with a combination of cheeses and pasta. It is often topped with a crunchy topping made from breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
A variety of cheeses can be used in artisan macaroni and cheese, including Gruyère, Comté, Fontina, Deep Seneca Cheddar, and Havarti. Some recipes also call for smoked cheeses or jalapeño cheeses.
Elbow macaroni is the most commonly used pasta for this dish. However, some recipes, such as the one by Chef Terrance Brennan, use penne pasta instead.
The cheese sauce for this dish is typically made by creating a roux with butter and flour, and then gradually whisking in milk and heavy cream until smooth. The cheese is then added and whisked until melted and incorporated.
The pasta should be cooked until it is slightly less than al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. It is also important to drizzle the cooked pasta with olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
