Beer Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon and 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon light flavor olive oil
• 1 large shallot, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup dark beer
• 2 teaspoons full strength prepared stone ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. 2

   In a large pot, over medium-high heat, bring two quarts water and 1 teaspoon salt to a full rolling boil. Gradually add macaroni and boil approximately 10 minutes or until pasta reaches desired tenderness. Drain.

3. 3

   Melt butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté shallots in butter and olive oil for approximately 2 minutes or until they begin to turn transparent. Add flour to the pan, stirring constantly until a smooth paste forms. Stirring constantly, gradually add milk and continue cooking until mixture is thick and bubbly (mixture should coat the back of a spoon). Add 8 ounces of cheese and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat and add beer, mustard, garlic powder, pepper and remaining salt. Stir well.

4. 4

   Spray a 9” x 9" square glass pan with non-stick cooking spray. In the large pot, combine macaroni and cheese sauce and stir. Pour into 9” x 9" baking dish, cover with foil and place into preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove foil and continue cooking, uncovered for another 15 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove macaroni and cheese from the oven. Allow to cool for approximately 5 minutes before serving.