Layered Mac and Cheese

This is another recipe I discovered on Pinterest. The back story is that it's the favorite Southern comfort food of musician John Legend. He shared the recipe with Martha Stewart. I can see why it's his favorite. It includes generous portions of both Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Evaporated milk creates a creamy texture under the crusty, golden-brown surface. It-is-awesome!

John Legend's Macaroni and Cheese

You can find the original recipe here. 

The Ingredients.

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for baking dish

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

3 cups elbow macaroni

2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk

1/3 cup skim milk

2 large eggs

1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2 (8-ounce) packages extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 (8-ounce) package Monterey Jack cheese, grated

Paprika, for sprinkling

The Directions.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Generously butter a 13-by-9-inch glass baking dish; set aside. Bring a large pot of water to a boil; add salt and macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain, and return to pot. Add butter, and toss until pasta is coated and butter has melted; set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, skim milk, and eggs. Add seasoned salt, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; set aside. In another medium bowl, combine cheeses; set aside.

Place 1/2 macaroni in an even layer in the bottom of prepared baking dish; cover evenly with 1/2 cheese. Repeat with remaining macaroni and cheese mixture. Pour milk mixture evenly over contents of baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake until top layer is lightly browned, 35 to 45 minutes. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes before serving.