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Beecher's-Inspired Baked Flagship Mac
Melissa Hart

Beecher's-Inspired Baked Flagship Mac

Aged cheddar and Jack cheese with a faint chipotle note distinguish this Beecher's-inspired baked mac. Penne gives the pan a larger, firmer bite than elbows. Cheese goes into a roux-thickened sauce and the top browns directly, without breadcrumbs competing with the cheddar crust.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb penne
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups shredded aged sharp cheddar divided
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp chipotle chile powder

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven to 375°F and boil penne 2 minutes short of tender; drain.
  2. Melt butter, whisk in flour for 1 minute and gradually add milk; simmer until lightly thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and melt in 2 cups cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt and chipotle powder.
  4. Fold in penne and spread in a buttered baking dish, then top with remaining cheddar.
  5. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes until the top is browned and the center bubbles.