6 Cheese Macaroni Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1/2 cup fontina cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup gouda cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• Salt, for boiling water (about 1 tablespoon)
• Unsalted butter 4 tablespoons Melted
• All-purpose flour 1/4 cup Used for thickening
• Whole milk 3 cups Warmed
• Heavy cream 1/2 cup Adds richness
• Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon For subtle tang
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)