Now, I cannot take ownership for this idea. I got it from my girl Ashley over at Wishes and Dishes. But...oh MAN! How brilliant! Crunchy, cheesy crackers on top of your beloved macaroni and cheese! Now...I might have changed the recipe just a smidge in that....I...sort of browned the butter...I KNOW! I couldn't resist! I have a problem guyyssss!
But anyway. So. Let's chat. This mac n cheese is super tasty BUT very thick. It is 100% best eaten the day it is made. This is not a dish where it makes good leftovers. So, I suggest you make this yumminess if you're entertaining or have a decent sized family unit. 2 people is not enough. Nopes. Especially because Michael will forever be loyal to Velveeta, it seems. *martyred sigh*
Anywayyy, give it a try! All those other people you feed will def. be grateful!
Cheez-It Macaroni and Cheese
Slightly adapted from Wishes and Dishes
Makes 12 servings.
Ingredients:- 16 oz. pasta (shells, macaroni, etc. whatever you prefer)
- 1/2 cup (or 1 stick or 8 tbsp.) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 16 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- pepper, to taste
- 2 cups crushed Cheez-it crackers
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly spray a 9"x13" dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions, drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly until little brown flecks form. Immediately whisk in flour until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook, whisking frequently, for about 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Stir in cheese until entirely melted.
- Combine cooked pasta, pepper, and cheese sauce. Pour into prepared dish. Spread crushed cheese crackers evenly on top.
- Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes, until evenly heated. Serve!
Now I want Cheez-its.