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Funky Snoop Dogg-Inspired Mac and Cheese

This vibrant mac and cheese combines creamy, melted cheeses with smoky spices and crispy breadcrumbs for a bold twist on a classic comfort dish. The dish is prepared by making a flavorful cheese sauce, mixing it with al dente pasta, and baking until bubbly with a golden crust. Its final texture is rich, gooey, and satisfyingly crunchy on top.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or macaroni) al dente
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup gruyère cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese optional, grated
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs toasted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for breadcrumbs

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to foam and smells nutty, about 1 minute. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color, about 2 minutes. This creates your roux base.
  4. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, creating a rich, cheesy sauce. Mix in smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle with extra cheese and toasted breadcrumbs on top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) until bubbling and golden brown on top, about 15 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to settle and flavors to meld.
  10. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped chives or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor and color.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, add a pinch more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. Toast breadcrumbs in olive oil until golden for added crunch. Use high-quality cheeses for the best melt and flavor.