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Snoop Dogg-Inspired Smoky Mac and Cheese

This smoky, cheesy mac and cheese combines sharp cheddar, hot sauce, and a buttery roux to create a rich, velvety sauce. Baked until bubbling and topped with paprika, it boasts a bold flavor profile with a creamy and crispy finish. Perfect as a soulful comfort dish with a touch of attitude.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or elbows) uncooked
  • 2 tbsp butter unsalted
  • 2 tbsp flour all-purpose
  • 1 1/2 cups milk dairy or plant-based
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce smoky or spicy, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked preferred
  • additional extra cheese for topping, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, listening for a gentle sizzle and watching it turn glossy.
  3. Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and pale, about 1 minute. This creates a roux that thickens the sauce.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and hot sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, fragrant, and slightly bubbly.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently with a spatula until evenly coated and creamy.
  7. Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle with additional cheese and a light dusting of smoked paprika for color and extra flavor.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown with a crispy crust.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to settle and the cheese to set slightly for easier serving.
  10. Scoop out hearty portions, making sure to get that crispy top layer, and enjoy the bold, smoky flavors in every bite.

Notes

For an extra smoky kick, use chipotle hot sauce or sprinkle some chopped smoked bacon on top before baking.