Perfect comfort food for a cold night in Chicago. Or, even a warm night in Austin. Doesn't matter, it this recipe is always right. So, without further adieu..
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add salt and pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta (reserving ½ cup of the hot pasta water) and return the pot to the stove.
- Pour 1 cup of half and half into the empty pot and heat to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the remaining ½ cup of half and half with flour, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth. Pour the flour mixture into the simmering half and half, whisk to combine.
- When the mixture simmers again and begins to thicken, add cheese and whisk smooth. Once the cheese has melted, add the pasta and stir to coat. If the macaroni and cheese seems thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water, only if needed, and stir to combine. Taste and season with additional salt as needed.
- Scoop the pasta into bowls and top with pulled pork.