Trinidad Macaroni Pie

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (226g) macaroni, (uncooked )
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
• 1-2 tablespoon jalapenos, (seeded and minced)
• 1 teaspoon (3g) minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon (2g) smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon (1g) thyme
• ½ cup onion, (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon (9g) flour
• 1 
 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
• 1 egg
• 4 ounces (113g) mozzarella cheese, (grated)
• 4 ounces (113g) sharp cheddar cheese
, (grated)
• 1 
 teaspoon (7g) salt ((I used Creole salt))
• ½ 
 teaspoon (2g) white pepper
• ½ teaspoons (2g) dry mustard ((optional))

Steps

1. 1

   Cook the macaroni per package directions. Be sure to salt the water before cooking.

2. 2

   While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the garlic, thyme, jalapeno pepper, and smoked paprika for about a minute.

3. 3

   Add the onions and continue cooking for about a minute more.

4. 4

   Next, add the flour and whisk until blended. Gradually add the milk and bring it to a boil, simmering and stirring until the mixture thickens.

5. 5

   Remove about ¼ cup of the mixture. Let it cool for a few minutes before slowly whisking in the egg so it doesn't curdle.

6. 6

   Dump the tempered egg back into the pan and mix well to incorporate all ingredients. Stir in more than half of the cheese, leaving some to sprinkle on top.

7. 7

   Drain the macaroni, add it to the sauce, and stir until coated.

8. 8

   Add the mustard and white pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed.

9. 9

   Transfer everything to a greased 2-quart baking dish or a 13"x9" baking dish.

10. 10

    Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake, uncovered, at 350℉ (180℃) for 20 -30 minutes or until heated through.