CARROLLTON Texas T.G.I. Friday’s Monday introduced a new macaroni and cheese dish to menus at more than 600 of its U.S. units after conducting a nationwide search for the ultimate comfort food.
The entree was inspired by Rick Massa, 58, a retired Los Angeles Police Department officer from Simi Valley, Calif., who won a prize during the Food Network's “Ultimate Recipe Showdown.” This is the second consecutive year in which winning recipes from the show have inspired entrees on Friday's menu.
Massa’s “Gourmet Mac n' Five Cheese” is a blend of fontina, blue, gruyere, white cheddar and Parmesan that is tossed with crispy bacon and penne pasta and topped with blue cheese crumbles and a Parmesan-crust topping. It is served with a grilled chicken breast.
“We've kept very close to the inspiration of the winning recipe, straight down to the toasted breadcrumbs on top,” said Scott Randolph, senior director of culinary research and development for T.G.I. Friday's USA. “We used the same delicious blend of five cheeses and added a little protein to go with your dairy and grains.”
Members of Friday’s “Give Me More Stripes” guest recognition program on Monday were e-mailed $5-off coupons to apply to the showdown entrees.
T.G.I. Friday’s is a division of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, based in Carrollton.