Poutine Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• Macaroni (8 ounces)
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup)
• Milk (2 cups)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups)
• Frozen French fries (1 pound)
• Cheese curds (1 cup)
• Gravy (2 cups)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. While the macaroni cooks, prepare the French fries according to package instructions until they are golden and crispy. Set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes a light golden color.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
7. In a large baking dish, spread the cooked French fries evenly across the bottom. Pour the mac and cheese mixture over the fries, spreading it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the cheese curds generously over the top of the mac and cheese.
9. Pour the gravy evenly over the entire dish, making sure to cover as much as possible.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese curds are melted and bubbly, and the gravy is hot.
11. Serve immediately, with additional gravy on the side if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal!