Steakhouse Chipolte Macaroni and Cheese

A couple of weeks ago LeAnn left a comment on my blog and listed her blog in the comment. I, of course, went to check it out. I came across a post with the recipe for Fleming's Chipotle Mac & Cheese. I knew this was a recipe that I had to make ASAP since we LOVE Fleming's Chipotle Mac & Cheese. I made a few changes to the recipe to suit our taste. This mac & cheese was creamy and cheesy. The chipotle gave it a nice smoky flavor. We loved it and will definitely make it again (for a special occasion). The original recipe is here on LeAnn's blog.

Steakhouse Chipolte Macaroni and Cheese
(Printable Recipe)

• 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.

CONNECT WITH PLAIN CHICKEN