Duran

Chef George Duran (host of TLC’s The Ultimate Cake Off) will be appearing on HSN this Monday, February 4th 9-10AM EST to share his delightful twist on the average mac n’ cheese, with his recipe for Fiery Tomato-Basil Mac & Cheese!

As a sneak peek to tomorrow, I wanted to share George’s recipe with you now before the show airs. Enjoy!

Celeb Chef George Duran On HSN – Tomato-Basil Mac & Cheese Recipe!

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Ingredients

1 lb. macaroni elbow
Kosher Salt
2 14.5 oz. cans diced tomatoes
1 cup packed fresh basil chopped
1 stick butter
½ cup flour
5 cups whole milk
4 cups 16 oz sharp cheddar, grated

For Topping

1 ½ cup Italian Style breadcrumbs
4 Tablespoons butter melted
1 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
Basil leaves for garnish
Preheat oven to 400 F.

Instructions

Bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil and add salt to taste. Then, add macaroni and stir gently allowing it boil for about 7 minutes until "al dente". Remove from heat and drain well and place in an extra large bowl.
Add both cans of diced tomatoes and chopped basil and mix with a rubber spatula. Set aside.
For béchamel sauce start by making a roux in a medium stock pot. Melt butter under medium heat and whisk in flour. Keep whisking for under medium heat until roux is browned, about 5-6 minutes. Add 2 tsp. salt. Gently whisk in the milk until properly combined. Constantly whisk the sauce until it thickens and begins to simmer, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and add 4 cups of cheddar. Gently mix it with a rubber spatula until completely melted.
Combine cheese sauce and macaroni and pour into a caldero (for best results use an IMUSA Evolution Nonstick Caldero).
Make topping by combining all of the ingredients and spread it evenly on top of mac and cheese.
Bake15-20 minutes until top is golden brown. Serve and garnish with basil.