AUNT MARTHA'S MAC & CHEESE

Aunt Martha's Mac & Cheese image

Provided by Pat Duran

Time 50m

Number Of Ingredients 14

SAUCE:
2 Tbsp bacon drippings,or butter
3 medium shallots, diced
2 Tbsp all purpose flour
4 c top cream (heavy cream)
1 whole garlic,roasted and minced
2 tsp dried thyme, crushed
1 c smokey cheese, grated or shredded
1 c cheddar cheese, grated or shredded
1 c monterey jack cheese, grated or shredded
1 lb macaroni pasta, cooked
TOPPING:
1 c cornmeal bread, crumbled
3 Tbsp bacon dripping or melted butter

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350^. Brush a large casserole dish with bacon drippings or butter...set aside.(If making to freeze check about note.)Can put in individual dishes.
2. Sauté the shallots in the bacon drippings until lightly browned. Add in the flour and slowly add the top cream;bring to a boil while stirring,to combine;
3. Add the garlic, and thyme; cook for 10 minutes or until reduced to about 1/2...now add the 3 kinds of cheese ..stir to combine then add the cooked macaroni.
4. Stir all ingredients together and pour into the prepared casserole dish. Spread the topping over top evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until crumbs on top are lightly browned.