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Fleming’s Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Fleming's Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

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Indulge in the creamy delight of Fleming’s Steakhouse Mac and Cheese, a dish that transforms ordinary pasta into a gourmet experience. This recipe combines rich smoked cheddar and sharp cheddar cheeses, enhanced by a hint of chipotle for an unforgettable flavor. Perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners, this mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser loved by kids and adults alike. Each bite offers a velvety texture that clings to cavatappi pasta, topped with golden, crunchy panko bread crumbs for added depth. Whether served as a side or main dish, this mac and cheese will elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3/4 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper (ground)
  • 3/4 pound smoked cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/4 pound cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon dried chipotle chili powder
  • 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi until al dente (8-9 minutes). Drain and cool under cold running water; toss with vegetable oil.
  3. In a sauce pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent (4-5 minutes). Stir in flour to create a roux for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually add heavy cream and half-and-half, seasoning with salt and white pepper. Simmer until thickened (5-6 minutes).
  5. Stir in smoked and regular cheddar cheeses until melted; then mix in the cooked pasta.
  6. Transfer to a baking dish. In a sauté pan, heat oil; add panko breadcrumbs and chipotle powder until golden brown (about 1 minute). Sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

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