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Macaroni and Cheese

description Description

Macaroni and Cheese isn't just a classic comfort food—it’s a canvas for bold flavors and creative twists. This version incorporates some surprising ingredients, adding depth and excitement to the traditional dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this spiced-up mac and cheese:

Quick Tips:
  • Spice Levels: Adjust the chipotle and other spices to suit your taste preferences.
  • Texture Tweaks: For extra crunch, add more toasted breadcrumbs or even crumbled bacon on top.
  • Flavor Boosters: Experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like sautéed onions, roasted peppers, or jalapeños for a unique twist.

kitchen Ingredients

Pasta Broth

3½ cup Macaroni
1 can Beer
½ can Bloody Mary mix
1 cube Chicken Bouillon
to taste Chipotle Salt / pepper

Macaroni and Cheese

¼ cup Salted Butter
¼ cup All-purpose Flour
2 cups Half and Half
½ cup Pasta Broth
2 oz White Wine
¼ cup Sour Cream
2 egg yolks
1 lbsCheese (such as cheddar, jack, and/or fontina)

menu_book Directions

Cook the Pasta:
  • Prep the Cooking Liquid: Combine beer, water, Bloody Mary mix, and chicken broth in a large pot. Add salt, pepper, and a touch of chipotle for extra kick.
  • Boil and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add your pasta. Ensure the pasta is just below the water line—add more water if needed. Cook until the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite).
Make the Sauce:
  • Melt the Butter: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Cook the Flour: Add flour to the melted butter and cook until it forms a smooth roux (base for thickening the sauce).
  • De-glaze with Wine: Pour in wine to lift the flavorful bits from the pan.
  • Incorporate Liquids: Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth.
  • Add Pasta Broth: Mix in some of the reserved starchy pasta water to the sauce for extra creaminess.
  • Mix in Sour Cream and Spices: Add sour cream and more spices if desired. Let it cook for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Finish the Dish:
  • Temper the Egg Yolks: Slowly mix a little of the hot sauce into beaten egg yolks to temper them (prevent curdling), then thoroughly stir the tempered yolks back into the sauce.
  • Add Cheese: Gradually add cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
  • Combine with Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until everything is well combined.
Optional Toppings and Baking:
  • Top with Cheese or Breadcrumbs: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. For added texture, top with more cheese or butter-toasted breadcrumbs (maybe even seasoned with garlic).
  • Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
assistant_photo
Categories: My Side Dish,
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