Sunday, October 4, 2015

My Favorite Macaroni and Cheese

My beautiful friend Lindsey makes this and I found out the recipe is actually supposed to be a homemade version of Panera Bread's Mac-n-cheese. I have adapted the recipe and make this regularly. It is so creamy and my kids love it, even the one who won't eat any other kind of mac-n-cheese.

Panera's Mac & Cheese

Here's my adaptation:

Ingredients:

1 16-oz. pkg. of elbow macaroni
1/4 c. butter (1/2 stick)
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
2 1/2 c. milk
10 oz. extra-sharp white Vermont cheddar (This is the size pkg. at Aldi.)
2 oz. another white cheese (I've used Monterrey Jack, mozzarella, and parmesan.)
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions.
2. Melt butter in a large pot (I use my 4qt. dutch oven) over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in milk; cook over medium heat, whisking until mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat.
4. Add cheeses, salt and hot sauce, stirring until cheese melts and you have a smooth sauce.
5. Stir in pasta. Ready to serve!

Note: The first time I made it I used the American cheese slices and it was good, but since I can't find them at Aldi I just pick a different cheese. My family gobbles this up every time I make it.

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