Mac & Cheese with Crispy Fries and Cajun Spices

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°C in grill mode. Cook the fries according to instructions (oven or deep fryer) until crispy and golden brown. Reserve.

2. 2

   Cook the macaronis al dente in a large boiling salted water casserole. Drain and reserve, keeping 2 tablespoons of cooking water.

3. 3

   Prepare the cheddar sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour all at once and whisk for 1 minute to form a blond roux. Gradually pour in the hot milk while constantly whisking to avoid lumps.

4. 4

   Cook the béchamel 3 to 4 minutes until thickened. Off the heat, incorporate the grated cheddar cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

5. 5

   In a large skillet without fat, cook the bacon bits over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, mix the drained macaronis with the warm cheddar sauce and three-quarters of the bacon. Adjust seasoning.

7. 7

   Pour this mixture into a buttered gratin dish (approximately 25x30cm). Spread the crispy fries evenly over the surface in a generous layer.

8. 8

   Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese uniformly over the fries, then the remaining bacon. Dust with a generous pinch of cajun spices and smoked paprika.

9. 9

   Bake under the grill at 220°C for 5 to 8 minutes, monitoring carefully, until the cheese is well melted, golden brown, and gratinated in some areas. Serve immediately.