🌴 Creamy Cheesy Caribbean Macaroni Pie (Béchamel Edition)

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Step 1

1. Cook the Pasta

Step 2

• Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente.

Step 3

• Drain and toss with a small knob of butter or drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4

2. Make the Béchamel

Step 5

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Step 6

2. Whisk in flour to make a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

Step 7

3. Slowly whisk in warm whole milk and warm evaporated milk until smooth.

Step 8

4. Stir in Dijon, ketchup/tomato paste, Worcestershire, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper and chicken stock

Step 9

5. Reduce heat to low, stir in cream cheese until melted.

Step 10

6. Add half the cheddar, all the Parmesan, and the mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 11

3. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Step 12

• Add cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl or back into the pasta pot.

Step 13

• Pour over the béchamel cheese sauce and mix well so every piece is coated.

Step 14

4. Assemble

Step 15

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 16

• Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 17

• Pour in the pasta-cheese mixture.

Step 18

• Sprinkle breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz) on top.

Step 19

• Add a final layer of cheddar and dust with paprika/cayenne.

Step 20

5. Bake

Step 21

• Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.

Step 22

• Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing so it sets.