Newk's Mac and Cheese is a mouth-watering and indulgent dish that is perfect for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal. This creamy and cheesy dish is a popular side dish at Newk's Eatery, a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in handcrafted sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and soups.
How To Make:
The dish is made with elbow macaroni, which is cooked until it is tender, and then mixed with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. The sauce is made by combining butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan, and then adding shredded cheddar cheese and other ingredients, such as cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. The mixture is then stirred until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Once the cheese sauce is ready, it is poured over the cooked macaroni and mixed until the pasta is coated evenly. The dish can be served as is or can be topped with breadcrumbs and baked in the oven until it is golden brown and crispy on top.
Newk's Mac and Cheese is a popular side dish that is often served with sandwiches, salads, or soups. It is also a great option for those looking for a vegetarian or gluten-free meal, as it can be made without meat and with gluten-free pasta.
In conclusion, Newk's Mac and Cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a satisfying side dish or a vegetarian meal, this creamy and cheesy pasta dish is sure to please.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan are all great options.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Use a combination of milk and cream for a creamy texture.
Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
Experiment with different pasta shapes for a fun twist.
Variations:
Add cooked bacon or ham to the mac and cheese for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Make it spicy by adding jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Use different types of cheese to create unique flavor combinations. For example, try a combination of blue cheese and Gouda.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to thicken the cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Al dente elbow macaroni should be prepared as directed on the package. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the adulation. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Whole milk and heavy cream should be added gradationally and duly amalgamated. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture has thickened.
Add the salt and black pepper to the sauce, then stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Stir the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta to combine.
Fill the baking dish with the mac and cheese. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
The macaroni and cheese should be baked for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden. Before serving, let the mac and cheese cool for a while.