Smoky Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • [q:3/4] tsp ground nutmeg
  • [q:2 1/2] cups (600 ml) whole milk
  • 2 cups smoked Cheddar, shredded
  • [q:1/4] cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • [q:1/4] tsp garlic powder
  • [q:1/2] tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 lb mini penne pasta (gluten-free if needed)
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of the butter. Add the flour and stir until the mixture turns golden, 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add the paprika and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in the milk. Bring to a gentle boil and then immediately lower the heat. Simmer for about 4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Once the sauce has thickened and can coat the back of a spoon, stir in the cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. Set aside.
  5. In a small skillet over medium-high heat, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter. Add the breadcrumbs, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, or until golden. Transfer to a plate.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, tender yet firm to the bite, according to the package directions (see Tips below). Drain well. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and toss well to coat.
  7. Divide among six [q:1 1/4]-cup (300-ml) ramekins or oven dishes. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture. Alternatively, you can use a 9 x 13–inch baking dish. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition Info
Made with gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta: 588 Calories, 20 g Protein, 69 mg Cholesterol, 70 g Carbohydrates, 6 g Total sugars (0 g Added sugars), 5 g Fiber, 27 g Total fat (14 g sat), 378 mg Sodium, [nut:4] Calcium, Phosphorus, [nut:3] Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B12, [nut:2] Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), [nut:1] Vitamin B3 (niacin), Vitamin D, Zinc