Chipotle Mac n' Cheese

Chipotle Mac n' Cheese




1 lb cavatappi pasta

2 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

3 tablespoons all purpose flour

2 cups heavy cream

3 cups half and half

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon white pepper (ground)

16 oz cheese - combination of sharp cheddar, medium cheddar and smoked swiss

1 Tbsp dried chipolte chili (chipotle chili powder)

3/4 cup panko



Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large pot, bring 1 gallon of water to boil. Add 2 teaspoons salt and pasta and cook for 8 – 9 minute

Drain pasta and cool under cold running water. Pasta should be slightly firm. Toss drained pasta in oil and reserve

Melt butter in a large sauce pot over medium heat. Add onions and flour and cook 1 – 2 minute but do not brown. Add cream, half and half, kosher salt, chipotle powder and white pepper.

Bring pot to a simmer. Cook until sauce is thick, about 5 – 6 minute Blend cheese into sauce and add cooked pasta.

Pour pasta and sauce into a 9 x 12″ baking dish. Sprinkle top of pasta with panko bread crumbs. Bake for 20 minutes.