Spaghetti with cheese

Macaroni and Cheese: a Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, comforting, and extremely filling dish, I invite you to discover the macaroni and cheese recipe. This recipe is perfect for evenings when you're craving something tasty but don't have much time to cook. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a main dish that will impress anyone sitting at your table. Here’s how to prepare it!

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g macaroni (one package)
- 200-300 g grated cheese (or cheese of your choice, depending on preferences)
- 4 heaping tablespoons of sour cream
- 150 g bacon (or pancetta for a more intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the cheese and bacon: While the pasta is boiling, cut the bacon into small cubes. In a non-stick frying pan, place the bacon pieces over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy and the fat is rendered. This will add a savory flavor to your dish.

3. Adding the cheese and sour cream: Once the bacon is ready, reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheese to the pan. Mix well so that the cheese melts gently in the fat rendered from the bacon. Then, add the sour cream and continue stirring until you achieve a smooth mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combining the ingredients: When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the pan over the cheese and bacon sauce. Mix well to ensure the macaroni is fully coated with the sauce. Let it sit on low heat for 3-5 minutes so the flavors can meld.

5. Serving: Once everything is well mixed and absorbed in the sauce, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the macaroni and cheese immediately, possibly with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Helpful tips

- Cheese types: If you don’t have grated cheese on hand, you can use feta cheese or even goat cheese for a stronger flavor. Each type of cheese will give a distinct note to the dish.
- Optional additions: You can add sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to transform this dish into a more complex and nutritious meal.
- Cooking variations: If you like a creamier sauce, you can add a beaten egg to the cheese and sour cream mixture. This will bind nicely and provide a delicious flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This dish offers a good source of protein from the cheese and bacon, and the carbohydrates from the pasta will provide you with the energy needed for an active day. Cheese also contains calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds an interesting texture and is richer in fiber, making it a healthier choice.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
If you omit the bacon and choose a vegetarian cheese, the recipe becomes vegetarian-friendly.

How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftover pasta, you can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with the addition of a tablespoon of sour cream to bring it back to life.

Delicious combinations

These macaroni and cheese are delicious served alongside a fresh green salad or a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. They also pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Personal note

This macaroni and cheese recipe reminds me of family evenings spent together, gathered around the table enjoying simple yet flavorful meals. It’s a recipe that inspires warmth and comfort, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this macaroni and cheese is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dinner. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch! Enjoy your meal!