Showing posts with label Macaroni and cheese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Macaroni and cheese. Show all posts

Thursday, September 10, 2009

May I be Frank?

All of us have that one dish that perhaps is not the best for us.....doesn't rank among the healthiest choice on the menu.....but, every once-in-a-while, we just need to have it.  For whatever reason, I needed to feast on something totally indulgent today.  My dish?  Macaroni and and a Creamy Cheese Sauce doused with Frank's Hot Sauce.  (My son, Adam got me hooked on Frank's).  Unfortunately, I had to share with two others, but ok, my waistline is all the happier for that.  Here's my recipe for comfort:

MACARONI AND CHEESE SAUCE A LA FRANK'S HOT SAUCE
 (The latter, of course, is optional)

1 box elbow macaroni, cooked, and kept warm
6 slices center cut bacon, cooked until crisp
1/2 an onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, diced
6 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk (whole is best)
1 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoons finely chopped, fresh basil
2 tablespoons finely chopped, fresh parsley
1 cup shredded Montery Jack and/or Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly ground black pepper
Frank's Hot Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter; add onion and garlic.  Saute' for 5 minutes.  Add flour and stir constantly for one minute.  Gradually, add milk; whisking until incorporated, smooth and thickened; about 3 to 5 minutes.  Add chicken stock and whisk until heated through.  Add basil, parsley, cheeses, and black pepper; heat until cheeses are melted and sauce is thickened, smooth, and hot.  Combine macaroni and sauce; crumble bacon over and stir to combine.  Spoon into bowls......serve with Frank's.