Ranch House Macaroni and Cheese

Here's a Western-style mac 'n cheese dish that both big and little cowpokes will love!

Recipe Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons jalapeño chiles, seeded and finely chopped (or to taste)
2 cups (8 ounces) sharp Wisconsin Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained well, thinly sliced
1/4 cup bottled ranch style dressing
8 ounces wagon wheel pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions, drained
2 tablespoons green onions, sliced for garnish

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In large, deep saucepan, heat butter until sizzling. Stir in flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring, 1 to 2 minutes or until flour is golden. Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring 8 to 10 minutes or until mixture is thick and smooth.
3. Off heat, stir in salt, cumin, red pepper flakes, pepper, chiles and cheddar. Stir until cheese melts.
4. Add red peppers, dressing and cooked pasta, mixing well.
5. Pour into oval 8x10-inch lightly buttered casserole or similar baking dish.
6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with the sliced green onions.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.