Delicious Macaroni and Cheese with Smoked Pork

This macaroni and cheese dish features a delightful blend of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory smoked pork. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe combines classic comfort with a gourmet twist. The crispy smoked pork pieces add a flavorful contrast to the smooth cheese sauce, while fresh arugula sprouts offer a touch of freshness and color. It’s a versatile dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both family meals and entertaining guests. The creamy sauce is seasoned with oregano and salt to elevate the natural flavors of the cheese, while the pasta perfectly absorbs the rich and velvety texture. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Emphasizing quality ingredients like Vilma Anna egg noodles and Zaļais siers, this dish brings a taste of familiarity with a sophisticated edge. Delight in this comforting, flavorful, and fulfilling macaroni and cheese that is sure to warm the heart and soul.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g Vilma Anna egg noodles
• 100-150 g GC Grand smoked pork
• 150-200 g cheese (as preferred)
• 50 g butter
• 300 ml milk
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Absolūts ēd arugula sprouts, for garnishing
• Zaļais siers, for garnishing

Spices and Sauces:

• Oregano
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill a medium-sized saucepan halfway with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of **salt** and a few drops of olive oil to the water.
2. While the water is heating, dice the smoked pork into small cubes and dry-fry them on a pan until crispy.
3. Once the water boils, add 200 g of the egg noodles and cook for **8-10 minutes** until al dente.
4. When the noodles are ready, drain the excess water and place them in a bowl.
5. To prepare the cheese sauce, melt 50 g of butter in a pot. Once melted, add 300 ml of milk along with **oregano** and **salt**.
6. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
7. Once the flour is fully dissolved, add 150-200 g of grated cheese to the pot, stirring until you achieve a smooth texture.
8. Combine the cooked noodles with the cheese sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
9. Add the crispy pork bits into the mixture, folding them in gently.
10. Serve the macaroni with fresh arugula sprouts and a sprinkle of Zaļais siers on top.

Tips

• **For a creamier sauce**, use heavy cream instead of milk.
• Substitute smoked pork with **chicken** or mushrooms for a different protein option.
• Use a mix of **cheeses**, such as cheddar and mozzarella, for added depth of flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

• *Vegetarian Version*: Omit the pork and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
• *Gluten-Free*: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of chilled white wine or apple cider complements the flavors beautifully.

Best Places

• **Mac Attack Cafe** - Renowned for its inventive macaroni and cheese variations. Location: 52 Cheese Street, Bristol, UK.
• **Cheddar Lounge** - Offers a cozy atmosphere with gourmet pasta dishes. Location: 15 Gouda Lane, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• **Cheesecake and Bites** - A fusion of desserts and savory bites, known for mac and cheese. Location: 8 Rue Fromage, Paris, France.
• **The Cheese Deck** - Modern dining experience featuring artisanal cheeses. Location: 23 Dairy Road, Melbourne, Australia.
• **Pasta Heaven** - Celebrated for its comforting and homey pasta meals. Location: 19 Noodle Avenue, Chicago, USA.
• **Artisan Gourmet** - Offers a range of cheese-inspired meals. Location: 4 Parmesan Place, Florence, Italy.
• **Velvet Noodles** - Niche restaurant specializing in creamy pasta dishes. Location: 12 Cream Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
• **Smoky Gourmet** - Known for its smoked meats and creative pasta pairings. Location: 5 Bacon Boulevard, Toronto, Canada.
• **Melted Bliss** - A tribute to cheese and pasta in all its forms. Location: 7 Cheddar Way, Cape Town, South Africa.
• **Pasta Palette** - Offers a diverse range of pasta and cheese combinations. Location: 9 Swiss Drive, Zurich, Switzerland.