Ideal for a Gilmore Girls viewing marathon, whip up Sookie’s spicy Mac and Cheese, creamy, cheesy, and full of personality. Featured in Season 4, Episode 3, “The Hobbit, the Sofa and Digger Stiles,” it layers smoky chipotle and a hint of jalapeño over tender, gooey noodles for a dish that’s as comforting as it is lively. This will pair perfectly alongside a glass of Frank Family Carneros Pinot Noir, whose red fruit and gentle spice complement the warmth and depth of every bite.
Ingredients
| 1 Pound | Cavatappi pasta |
| 2 Tablespoons | Olive oil |
| 3 Large | Jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and coarsley chopped |
| 2 Cloves | Garlic, cut in half |
| 2 Tablespoons | Jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and coarsely chopped |
| 6 Tablespoons | Butter |
| 6 Tablespoons | Flour |
| 4 Cups | Whole milk |
| 2 Cups | Grated sharp white cheddar |
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and place rack in the middle.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and transfer to a buttered 9×13 pan.
- While the water heats, sauté olive oil, jalapeños, and garlic in a medium pan over medium-high heat until peppers are lightly browned and garlic is golden. Add chipotle peppers, cook 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Blend the pepper mixture until smooth, adding milk 1 Tbsp at a time if needed. Pour over pasta and stir gently to combine.
- For the cream sauce, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a paste. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened, then stir in cheddar and 2 tsp salt.
- Pour cream sauce over pasta-pepper mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Cover with foil (shiny side down) and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
