Mac and Cheese Monday

Remember yesterday when I said that the mac and cheese recipe claiming to be the best in the world was in fact not the best?  Well, I take it back.  I don't want to slander that recipe because I did not actually use it.  Well, I used it as an outline and the result was ok but not fantastic.  And I want fantastic!

There are many mac and cheesy-sauce recipes based on different ingredients.  I'm looking for a pretty thick sauce, bright orange color and major yum points, obvi.  The cup of oil in this recipe was a turnoff and while super healthy isn't a requirement, I'd prefer not cringe when recounting the ingredients.
So I tweaked it with mediocre results but can't complain.  I mean, even mediocre mac and cheese is better than a kick to the shins.

One major success was this pasta - the perfect shape to mimic boxed brands.