Kicked up Mac and Cheese

2 tsp salt
1 tsp olive oil
4 c elbow macaroni
8 Tbs butter or margarine
1/2 c flour
3 c milk or half and half
1/4 tsp pepper
3 c grated cheddar cheese
1 tsp Emeril's Original Essence, or to taste, recipe to follow

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tsp salt, olive oil and macaroni. Cook macaroni as directed on package, stirring often.
Grease a 2 quart casserole dish with cooking spray. Melt butter in heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 2 - 3 minutes. Do not allow the flour to brown. Using a whisk, add the milk and cook whisking constantly, until the mixture is thick and smooth. Remove from the heat and add 1 tsp salt, pepper, Essence, 2 cups of the cheese and stir well.
Combine with macaroni stirring well. Pour into greased dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Emeril's Essence Creole Seasoning
2 1/2 Tbs paprika
2 Tbs salt
2 Tbs garlic powder
1 Tbs black pepper
1 Tbs onion powder
1 Tbs cayenne pepper
1 Tbs dried oregano
1 Tbs dried thyme
Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Store in airtight container.