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In the world of comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as mac and cheese. This quintessential dish has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations, becoming a staple in homes across America. While traditional mac and cheese typically features a creamy cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta, Tini’s “Surprise-Ingredient” Mac & Cheese elevates this classic with unexpected flavors and textures, making it a standout at any table. This recipe not only includes the comforting elements we all love but also introduces unique ingredients like Dijon mustard, sriracha, and even hidden vegetables, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience filled with layers of flavor.

Tini’s “Surprise-Ingredient” Mac & Cheese

Discover a new twist on the classic comfort food with Tini's Surprise-Ingredient Mac & Cheese. This beloved dish combines creamy cheddar and Parmesan with unexpected ingredients like Dijon mustard, sriracha, and hidden vegetables, making each bite a flavorful surprise. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this mac and cheese is enhanced with crispy bacon and peas for added texture and nutrition. Learn the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering meal and impress your loved ones. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and enjoy a comforting dish that's sure to become a favorite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

½ cup frozen peas (or substitute with spinach for an extra veggie surprise)

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup bread crumbs (for topping)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt along with the elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it's al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot used for the pasta, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until it becomes light golden in color.

      Incorporate the Milk: Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

        Melt the Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to mix until all the cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce.

          Add the Surprise Ingredients: To elevate the flavor, mix in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and your desired amount of sriracha. If you're using bacon, sprinkle in the cooked and crumbled bacon along with the frozen peas (or spinach) at this stage. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Combine Sauce and Pasta: Carefully fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently until each piece of pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture.

              Prep for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

                Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of bread crumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the mac & cheese for a delightful crunch after baking.

                  Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dish out warm as a comforting meal or side and enjoy the delightful surprise of hidden ingredients that will leave everyone wanting more!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | Serves 6-8