Hearty Baked Harvest Cheeses with Noodles

Steps

Prep

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180 °C) (175°C (350 °F)).

2. 2

   Cook the pasta in salted, boiling water for 7 minutes until slightly underdone; it will finish cooking in the oven. Set aside.

   Start 7-minute timer
3. 3

   Freshly shred the cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked gouda. Do not use pre-shredded cheese as the anti-clumping coating can make the sauce grainy.

4. 4

   Mix the shredded cheeses together in a bowl and divide the mixture into two equal halves. Set aside.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic granules, and paprika. Set aside.

Prepare the sauce

6. 6

   In a large sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add half of the spice mixture and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   Start 30-second timer
7. 7

   Add the flour to the butter and spices. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to form a roux.

   Start 2-minute timer
8. 8

   Add the evaporated milk a little at a time, whisking or stirring to ensure the mixture is fully combined and smooth before adding more.

9. 9

   Add the whole milk a little at a time, again ensuring it is fully incorporated before adding more. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

   Start 2-minute timer
10. 10

    Turn the heat to low. Slowly add one half of the shredded cheese mixture, a little at a time, ensuring the cheese fully melts before adding the next handful. Stir in the remaining half of the spice mixture.

11. 11

    Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Bake

12. 12

    In a large baking dish, spread half of the pasta and cheese sauce mixture. Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese (one quarter of the original total) over the layer.

13. 13

    Add the remaining pasta and cheese mixture, then top the entire dish with the final portion of shredded cheese.

14. 14

    Bake the macaroni and cheese for 25 minutes.

    Start 25-minute timer
15. 15

    Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese on top begins to brown and become crispy.

    Start 2-minute timer
16. 16

    Top with fresh oregano and serve hot.