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Ghoul-Gheroni and Cheese

A playful twist on classic mac and cheese that's perfect for Halloween and family movie nights, combining creamy cheese sauce with elbow macaroni.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni Cook according to package directions.
Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Adjust for more cheese if desired.
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk recommended for creaminess.
  • 4 tablespoons butter For melting in the saucepan.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour To create a roux.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray For greasing the baking dish.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  2. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the ghoul-gheroni mixture into a greased baking dish. For a crispy top, sprinkle some extra cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Let it cool slightly and then dish it out. Garnish with spooky toppings if desired.

Notes

You can add cooked broccoli or diced peppers for color and nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently. If your cheese sauce looks lumpy, it adds to the ghoulish charm.