Ultra Creamy Mac and Cheese Casserole

There's nothing like a creamy, baked macaroni & cheese to bring a smile to your face. It ranks in my top 5 favorite comfort foods. Recently I came across this wonderful recipe from The Deen Brothers bookcook, Y'all Come Eat, for a delicious Mac & Cheese Casserole that's worth sharing.

Is it healthy? No.

... but for those of you who can afford to live a little, give this a shot. You'll be glad you did!

Ultra Creamy Mac and Cheese Casserole

Ingredients:

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces and softened, plus additional for coating dish
2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded American cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, cuded
1 cup half & half
4 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
freshly ground black pepper


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter a 13x9-inch baking dish; set aside.

2. In a large pot of water, cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain. Return the macaroni to the pot. Add the cheese to the hot macaroni and stir well; spread in the prepared dish.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup butter, the half & half, eggs, sour cream, salt, cayenne pepper (if using) and black pepper. Pour over the macaroni. Bake, uncovered, for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.