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Smoky Cheesy Baked Pasta

This baked pasta combines rich, melted cheese with a smoky spice blend, baked until bubbly and golden on top. The dish features a creamy cheese sauce coating al dente pasta, topped with crunchy Ritz crackers for added texture. The result is a cozy, rebellious twist on comfort food with a smoky kick and cheesy goodness in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • Elbow macaroni or cavatappi: Holds sauce well
  • Butter: Forms the base of the roux
  • All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce
  • Whole milk: Creates a creamy foundation
  • Heavy cream: Adds richness and body
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: Classic mac and cheese flavor
  • Mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and melt
  • Monterey Jack cheese: Smooth and mild
  • Cream cheese: Adds extra creaminess
  • Salt: Enhances cheese flavor
  • Black pepper: Adds subtle warmth
  • Optional paprika: Gentle color and depth

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Saucepan: For making cheese sauce
  • Whisk: Keeps sauce smooth
  • Baking dish: For assembling and baking
  • Wooden spoon: For mixing

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta: Boil until just shy of al dente, drain
  2. Make roux: Melt butter, whisk in flour until smooth
  3. Add dairy: Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream
  4. Thicken sauce: Cook until smooth and slightly thick
  5. Add cheeses: Stir in cheeses until fully melted
  6. Season: Add salt, pepper, and paprika
  7. Combine: Fold pasta into the cheese sauce
  8. Transfer to dish: Spread evenly in a baking dish
  9. Bake: Bake until bubbly and lightly golden
  10. Rest: Let sit briefly before serving