Recipe Card
Spicy Mac and Cheese Delight
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbLarge Elbow Macaroni: The backbone of any mac and cheese (elbow macaroni holds onto cheesy goodness and provides a satisfying texture.)
- 16 CupsChicken Broth: This adds incredible flavor and richness to the pasta (infusing it with savory depth.)
- 2 tspButter: Essential for sautéing and adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
- 1Can (12 oz Evaporated Milk: This ingredient adds creaminess and richness without being overly heavy.)
- 1 CupHalf-and-Half: Blending half-and-half with evaporated milk creates an ultra-creamy sauce that coats each piece of macaroni perfectly.
- —Tony’s More Spice Seasoning: This spicy seasoning blend provides a subtle heat that elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 1/2 CupsCheddar Cheese (Shredded: Cheddar brings a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.)
- 1 1/2 CupsMozzarella Cheese (Shredded: Adding mozzarella contributes a stretchy texture and milder flavor, enhancing the creaminess.)
- 1/2 CupGouda Cheese (Shredded: Gouda imparts a unique smokiness and its rich texture ensures a luxurious mouthfeel.)
- —Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray: This finishing touch promotes even browning and helps to prevent sticking in the baking dish.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s ready to bake your mac and cheese to perfection.
- 2
Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, bring 16 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 ½ lb of large elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 3
Melt the butter: In the same pot used for the macaroni, melt 2 tsp of butter over medium heat. Allow it to gently froth.
- 4
Add evaporated milk and half-and-half: Pour in 1 can (12 oz) of evaporated milk and 1 cup of half-and-half, stirring to mix thoroughly. This creamy base is essential for your cheese sauce.
- 5
Combine macaroni and cheese: Stir in the cooked macaroni, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of shredded Gouda, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted and integrated. Season generously with Tony’s More Spice seasoning to taste.
- 6
Prepare for baking: Spray a baking dish with extra virgin olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- 7
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
- 8
Add finishing cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will create a delicious crust.
- 9
Broil to perfection: Turn on the broiler and allow the mac and cheese to broil on high for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.