Ultimate Mac and Cheese Bar

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
• 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 4 cups (960 ml) whole milk, warmed
• 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced green onions
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Pickled jalapeños
• Steamed broccoli florets
• Caramelized onions
• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)