This New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Featuring a rich, creamy sauce made with half-and-half and heavy cream, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, this dish is a decadent and satisfying meal. Using spaghetti instead of traditional macaroni adds a unique texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Dry spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground black pepper | 2 teaspoons |
| Granulated garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cayenne pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Half-and-half | 4 cups |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 3 cups, divided |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 3 cups, divided |
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or two 8×8-inch dishes) with baking spray and set it aside.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the 1 pound dry spaghetti in a large pot of boiling water for 6 minutes. The spaghetti will be undercooked, but it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepot or Dutch oven, melt the 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour to create a paste (a roux), whisking constantly for about 30 seconds. Add the 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon granulated garlic, and ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper. Gradually whisk in the 4 cups half-and-half followed by the ½ cup heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Whisk in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is completely melted.
- Combine & Assemble: Turn off the heat. Add the partially cooked spaghetti directly into the saucepot and mix to combine, ensuring every strand is coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Transfer the sauced spaghetti into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sides of the casserole are bubbling and the cheese on top is golden and melted.
- Serve: Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this rich and creamy New Orleans-style baked mac and cheese!
