This is an upscale version of your traditional mac and cheese. I love the idea of big noodles and big flavors—rigatoni is definitely my favorite noodle. The sausage adds a little body and heat while the grilled broccoli rabe a little fresh bitterness. I like to use a Marzen (Oktoberfest) with this dish as I like the pairing with Italian sausage—the malty sweetness rounds out the spices of the sausage and pairs well with the fontina.
Active preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Fontina Cheese Sauce
3 Tbs butter
1 Tbs garlic, minced
2 Tbs all-purpose flour
1½ cup (355 ml) milk
½ cup (118 ml) Thirsty Dog’s Barktoberfest
8 oz (227 g) fontina cheese, shredded
Kosher salt