Grilled Mac and Cheese Sandwich

The method

1. 01

   Bring a medium saucepan of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes, or according to the package directions.

2. 02

   In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

3. 03

   Drain the pasta in a colander. Place the empty pasta pan over low heat and add the butter. When the butter has melted, whisk in the flour mixture and continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture is beginning to brown.

4. 04

   Slowly whisk the milk and cream into the flour mixture until well combined. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is heated through and just begins to thicken.

5. 05

   Gradually add the cheese while stirring constantly until melted into the sauce. Stir in the drained cooked pasta.

6. 06

   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and coat with nonstick cooking spray or butter. Pour the mac and cheese onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.

7. 07

   Coat another piece of parchment paper with cooking spray or butter and place it on the surface of the mac and cheese. Refrigerate until cool and firm, about 1 hour.

8. 08

   Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat.

9. 09

   In a small bowl, stir together the butter and garlic powder until well blended.

10. 10

    Remove the mac and cheese from the refrigerator and peel off the top layer of parchment paper. Cut into 8 equal pieces.

11. 11

    Spread garlic butter on one side of each bread slice. Place half of the slices, buttered-side down, on a cutting board. Top each with one slice of Cheddar, then 1 piece of the mac and cheese, and finish with a slice of Jack.

12. 12

    Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered-side up.

13. 13

    Using a spatula, place as many sandwiches in the pan as will fit without crowding. Cover and cook until the bottoms are browned, about 4 minutes.

14. 14

    Turn and cook until the second sides are browned, the cheese is melted, and the mac and cheese is heated through, about 4 minutes more.

15. 15

    Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Cut the sandwiches in half, if desired, and serve.