BAHAMIAN MACARONI AND CHEESE

Bahamian Macaroni and Cheese image

Provided by Lynn Dine

Time 1h

Number Of Ingredients 11

16 oz package elbow macaroni
24 oz evaporated milk
4 Tbsp butter
1 1/2 lb cheddar cheese, grated, divided
2 Tbsp onion, finely minced
2 Tbsp green bell pepper, finely minced
1 habanero pepper, seeded, deveined, finely minced
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika for sprinkling on top

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Bring a pot of water to a high boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions for al dente, about 5-6 minutes. Meanwhile, mince the onion, bell pepper, and habanero pepper. Heat the evaporated milk in a sauce pan on medium heat for about 5 minutes. You don't want to boil it, just heat it.
3. Drain the macaroni and return them to the pot. Stir in the warm milk, butter, onions, peppers, and ½ the cheese. Allow to cool 2 minutes.
4. Transfer macaroni to a 9 x 13 inch baking pan and pour the beaten eggs on top. Use a fork or spoon to work them into the macaronis a little. You don't need to stir them, just distribute them and let them settle in a bit.
5. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and then sprinkle with paprika on top.
6. Bake 35-40 minutes. Allow to cool 20-30 minutes before cutting.