3 Levels of Mac & Cheese

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Here are 3 levels of Mac & Cheese.

Level 1: Boxed Mac & Cheese
We've all had this kind of mac & cheese. Boil your noodles, add your cheese packet, and you're good to go. 

This will do in a pinch, but we can do better. 

Level 2: Homemade Mac & Cheese
Cook your elbow macaroni for half the time it says on the box. Drain and add half a stick of butter, some slices of American cheese, provolone, shredded cheddar, sour cream, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. 

Spread in a baking dish and add another layer of cheese, breadcrumbs, and pads of butter onto the top. Bake at 350º for 20-25 minutes. 

You heard Maria— we can do better. 

Level 3: The Ultimate Mac & Cheese
This is the time to go all-out on your cheese choices. Shred smoked Gouda, Fontina, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan Reggiano.

Boil Cavatappi noodles in well-salted water for about 5 minutes. In a pan over medium-low heat, melt some butter, add breadcrumbs, and toast until everything is nice and browned. Cut the heat and mix in a clove of minced garlic. 

In a pot, add equal parts of flour and butter, and whisk until the flour taste is cooked out. Add a little milk at a time, whisking until everything is well combined. Add some Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper before slowly starting to add your cheese, reserving a little for later. Once everything is well combined, add a little Worcestershire sauce for a kick before stirring in your noodles.

Add some macaroni to an oven-safe dish, then a layer of cheese, then more noodles, and finish with more cheese. Bake at 350º for 25 minutes, and finish with your toasted breadcrumbs before serving. 

If you really want to indulge in the ultimate comfort food, this is the way to go all-in. 

Try it, and let me know what you think. 

- Chef Mike

#macandcheese #cookingathome #comfortfood