Pimento Mac and Cheese

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to boil and salt generously. Add the macaroni and cook until just tender. Drain and set aside. Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan set over medium high heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 5 minutes. Whisk in the milk and cream, a little at a time, letting the rouxe absorb the liquid before adding more. Allow to simmer gently over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the salt, pepper, sugar, and cream cheese, stirring to combine. Stir in the macaroni, cheddar, pimentos, hot sauce to taste, and lemon juice. Continue heating gently over medium heat, stirring often to incorporate the ingredients and melt the cheese evenly into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, taste, and adjust seasonings if desired. When ready to serve, ladle the pasta into bowls. Sprinkle with crushed chips, dust with some of the smoked paprika, and scatter scallions or chives over the top.