Appearing on HSN this Monday, February 14th 9-10 AM EST will be Chef George Duran and the IMUSA cookware and appliance line. IMUSA is a go-to Hispanic line of fine cookware and appliances that you can find on HSN and IMUSA is also available at Target.
George Duran’s Fiery Tomato-Basil Mac & Cheese courtesy of IMUSA
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.
Preparation:
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. Bake 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown. Serve and garnish with basil.
