Comfort Foods (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - Pasta (Corkscrew/Cavatappi Preferred): 1 lb.
02 - Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): 1 lb.
03 - Colby Jack Cheese (Shredded): 1 lb.
04 - Cheddar Cheese (Sharp Preferred, Shredded): 1/2 lb.
05 - Salt: 1/4 tsp.
06 - Freshly Ground Pepper: 1/4 tsp.
07 - Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp.
08 - Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp.
09 - Unsalted Butter: 3 tbsp.
10 - All-Purpose Flour: 3 tbsp.
11 - Evaporated Milk (~1 Can): 12 oz.
12 - Heavy Cream: 2 cups.
13 - Mustard (Dijon Preferred): 1 tbsp.

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain well once done.
02 - While pasta cooks, shred the mozzarella, colby jack, and cheddar cheeses using the coarse side of a box grater. Mix the shredded cheese in a large bowl, then divide into two portions and set aside.
03 - In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to make the seasoning mix. Set aside.
04 - In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add half of the seasoning mix and stir to release aromatics. Add the flour, stirring constantly until it bubbles slightly and incorporates.
05 - Slowly add evaporated milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Next, add the heavy cream, whisking constantly. Stir in Dijon mustard and remaining seasoning mix. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, whisking occasionally.
06 - Add HALF of the shredded cheese. Turn heat to low and melt cheese, adding a handful at a time and ensuring it melts completely before adding more.
07 - Stir in the drained pasta, coating all noodles in the sauce.
08 - In a casserole dish, layer half of the mac and cheese. Add half of the remaining shredded cheese on top, followed by the remaining mac and cheese, then the rest of the shredded cheese.
09 - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is melted and bubbling. Broil for 2 minutes to create a crispy crust. Remove from oven, let sit briefly, then serve.

# Notes:

01 - This mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and baked with a blend of cheeses for an ultimate comfort dish.
02 - Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers layers of gooey cheese and a crispy top.
03 - Customize by adding mix-ins like cooked bacon or breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

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