Fallen Souffle

I have been inspired to think outside the box and satisfy my ever changing cravings. Tonight was one of those night where I had a pound of beef and no idea what to make. I also liked the idea of using up what I already in the pantry and fridge. I have had a massive craving for mac and cheese and Evan was up for the challenge of eating whatever I came up with- bless his soul.

Luckily what I came up with was pretty damn tasty and it got me thinking about other trashy foods, which I really think soothe the soul and frankly that what I have been needing these days. We should embrace the trashy foods and our cravings.

So embrace your trashy side and try something disgusting today, I promise you won’t be sorry.

Smokey Mac and Cheese
1 lb elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
4 slices thick cut bacon, cooked and drained
4 T. butter (1/2 stick)
¼ cup flour
4 ounces beer (1/2 bottle)
1 can evaporated milk
½ pound (8 ounces) smoked cheddar, shredded
4 ounces white cheddar
4 ounces sharp cheddar
½ t. each salt and pepper
¼ t. cayenne
Paprika

1. Over medium high heat, melt butter. Add flour and whisk until combined, cook for about one minute. Add beer and cook for about a minute to cook out alcohol. Add evaporated milk and continue whisking until smooth. (Add a touch of regular milk or more beer if you find its getting hard to whisk.) Cook for about 5-7 minutes until sauce has thickened.

2. Preheat the broiler.

3. Remove sauce from heat and add salt, pepper, cayenne, smoked cheddar and white cheddar. Stir to melt completely.

4. Add pasta and beef to the pot and fold to combine.

5. Spray a 13×9 pan with cooking spray and pour pasta mixture into pan. Top with crumbled cooked bacon, sharp cheddar, and sprinkled paprika.

6. Broil for about 5 minutes or until top is browned while you clean up your dishes. Keep an eye on it or it may burn!

7. Remove from oven and allow to cool a few minutes before digging in.

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