Mac & Cheese

I'm a very big mac & cheese fan, which is probably why I'm always excited to try a new recipe. Scott doesn't seem to be a big fan unless there is something "different" about the recipe. I really liked this recipe. It's called "World's Best Mac and Cheese" on Martha Stewart's website, but I don't know if it is THAT good. But I would still make it again!!

 

 

 

Photo Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Mac & Cheese-adapted from Martha Stewart
Total Time: 30 Minutes
Serves 4

• Butter or vegetable oil, for baking dish
• 6 ounces penne
• 1 ounce cheddar cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
• 1 ounce Gruyere cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 3 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Jack cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter or oil and 8-inch baking dish; set aside.
 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Cook penne, according to package direction, for 2 minutes less than recommended on the package. Rinse pasta in cold water; set aside.

 

While pasta is cooking, make the sauce. Melt butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat; whisk in flour. Continue whisking and cooking for 2 minutes. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Cook, stirring frequently, until sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Add cheeses, salt, chile powder, and garlic powder. Stir until cheese has melted and all ingredients are well incorporated, about 3 minutes.

In a medium bowl, mix together cooked pasta and sauce gently but thoroughly. Pour pasta into prepared baking dish; sprinkle with cheeses and chile powder. Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.