Chorizo Mac & Cheese Bake: Spicy Comfort Food!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) dried elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) Spanish chorizo, removed from casings and crumbled
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more to taste!)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 4 cups (400g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)