In the realm of culinary creativity, few dishes evoke the comfort and nostalgia of macaroni and cheese. However, Skills Murder Mysteries has taken this classic comfort food and transformed it into a chillingly delightful experience with their creation, Cheddar Off Dead. Inspired by Beetle House NYC's infamous Cheshire Mac and Cheese, this dish combines rich flavors with a macabre twist, making it a perfect addition to any spooky gathering or Halloween feast.
The Inspiration Behind Cheddar Off Dead
Beetle House NYC, a restaurant that pays homage to the eccentric worlds of Tim Burton, has garnered a cult following for its unique and whimsical menu. The Cheshire Mac and Cheese, known for its creamy texture and playful presentation, serves as the foundation for Skills Murder Mysteries' version. However, Cheddar Off Dead shifts to a darker tone by using spicy stewed tomatoes instead of the restaurant's signature sweet ones, which add a burst of flavor and a hint of heat, creating a dish that is both comforting and thrilling.
Ingredients for Cheddar Off Dead
To recreate this killer macaroni and cheese at home, gather the following ingredients:
Cheese Sauce:
4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup shredded white Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded white American cheese
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper flakes
Stewed Tomatoes:
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash of Frank's RedHot Original Hot Sauce (Optional)
Bread Crumb Topping:
2 tablespoons butter, salted
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Pasta:
1 pound medium-shell pasta
Instructions to Create Your Cheddar Off Dead
Follow these steps to whip up your own Cheddar Off Dead:
Cheese Sauce:
Add the heavy cream to a saucepan and heat on medium until the cream starts to bubble.
Slowly add the cheese, 1 cup at a time, whisking constantly so that the cheese melts into the cream.
Add the salt and cayenne pepper flakes. Continue to cook and whisk briskly until the sauce has thickened and the cheese has melted completely, 10 to 12 minutes.
Stewed Tomatoes:
In a medium sauce pan, combine the Ro-Tel Hot Diced Tomatoes with Habaneros, Del Monte Canned Diced Tomatoes Zesty Chili Style, garlic powder, cayenne pepper flakes, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil for 3 to 5 minutes on medium heat, crushing the tomatoes as much as you want with a whisk. If you want some extra heat, stir in some Frank's RedHot Original Hot Sauce to taste.
Bread Crumb Topping:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and then add the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic pepper, mixing until the bread crumbs are moist.
Pasta:
Cook the pasta shells in boiling water according to the package instructions. Strain.
Finishing it off:
Preheat the broiler to 500°F (260°C).
In a large frying pan, heat the cheese sauce on medium until it has a thin liquid consistency. Add the pasta and mix until evenly coated. Pour the cheesy pasta into a broiler-safe dish and sprinkle with the bread crumb topping.
Broil until the bread crumbs are golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes.
To serve, divide the casserole between plates and pour 2 tablespoons of stewed tomato over the top of the dish.
More Macabre Recipes
For those who are intrigued by the dark culinary arts and wish to explore more recipes inspired by the whimsical and eerie worlds of Tim Burton, be sure to check out the Official Beetle House NYC Cookbook titled The Nightmare Before Dinner: Recipes to Die For. This collection features a variety of macabre dishes that are sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience into the realm of the fantastical.
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply indulging in a spooky night in, Cheddar Off Dead is sure to be a hit. Its combination of creamy cheese, spicy tomatoes, and a hint of mischief will leave your taste buds haunted in the best possible way!
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