Rebellious Snoop Dogg Mac and Cheese
This indulgent mac and cheese features a rich, cheesy sauce made by melting sharp cheddar into a silky cream base, topped with crunchy toasted breadcrumbs. It’s baked until bubbling and golden, creating a luscious, gooey interior with a crispy crown that oozes comfort and swagger in every bite.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Grater
Ingredients
- 8 cups water for boiling pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
- 400 g elbow macaroni or cavatappi for extra flair
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for the roux and topping
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder to wake up the cheese flavor
- 2 cups heavy cream for a silky, rich sauce
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
- a dash hot sauce or cayenne hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a smoky, spicy kick
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping, toasted with butter
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and generously butter your baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat until it begins to foam, then stir in the mustard powder and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer while whisking constantly – you want a slightly bubbly, fragrant, and smooth sauce.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until each addition melts into a glossy, oozy sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for that rebellious kick, then taste and adjust as needed.
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness.
- Transfer the coated pasta into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Toast the panko breadcrumbs in a skillet with a tablespoon of butter until golden brown and crispy, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until bubbling around the edges and the top is golden and crunchy.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to set slightly and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, spooning out that creamy, cheesy interior with a crispy crown, and enjoy the rebellious, indulgent vibe.
Notes
For extra smoky flavor, try using smoked cheddar or adding a touch of smoked paprika. Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs during baking to prevent over-browning. Feel free to add cooked bacon or jalapeños for an extra rebel twist.