Cheese and Macaroni (Call Your Cardiologist!) 🧀🍝❤️

If you're in the mood to indulge in a comforting, creamy classic, then this is the recipe for you! This ultra-rich macaroni and cheese will satisfy your cravings and cause a delicious stir in your taste buds. With multiple cheeses, crispy toppings, and a whisper of spice, this dish is decadently delightful. Just remember, it’s not an everyday recipe—save it for special occasions (or a very unfortunate day when you need a good excuse to call your cardiologist)!

Ingredients

For the macaroni

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cheese blend

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

For the topping

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the cheese sauce:

   • In the same pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until it's a pale golden paste (about 2 minutes)—this is your roux!
   • Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking vigorously until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Add the cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and creamy.

4. Combine macaroni and sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce until well combined.

5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.

6. Assemble the dish: Pour the cheesy macaroni into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.

7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy.

8. Garnish and serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!

🚨 Caution: This dish is loaded with flavors and fats! Slice modest portions and enjoy with a side of salad to balance out the richness.

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce for a spicy kick! 🌶️
• Meat lovers: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for an extra protein punch. 😋
• Veggie boost: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color!
• Gluten-free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and make sure your flour is gluten-free as well.

Remember, if you feel your heart racing just by looking at this recipe, it’s probably doing its job! Enjoy indulgently but with caution. 😄❤️