“Adult” Mac & Cheese

Difficulty Level: Easy

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serving Size: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:

Calabrian Chili Breadcrumbs:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• 1/4 tsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. Calabrian chili oil

Adult Mac & Cheese:

• 1/2 lb. lumache pasta or any other short pasta

• 1/2 cup Mascarpone

• 1/2 cup Parmigano Reggiano, finely grated

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• Calabrian chili oil, to taste

• 1/3 cup Calabrian chili breadcrumbs

Directions:

Calabrian Chili Breadcrumbs:

1. In a large sauté pan over low heat, add the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs along with the salt and toast, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon (be careful not to burn!).

3. Once the breadcrumbs are light brown in color, add the juice of 1/2 lemon. Stir and continue to toast over low heat for about 2-3 more minutes until the lemon juice is fully absorbed.

4. Finish with the chili oil and stir until the breadcrumbs are fully coated.

Adult Mac & Cheese:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Meanwhile, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat.

2. Stir in the Mascarpone and then whisk in the Parmigiano until smooth. Add a splash of chili oil for a little extra kick.

3. Once the water comes to a boil, add plenty of salt. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

4. Strain the pasta and add it to a large sauté pan along with the Mascarpone cream sauce and 1/4 cup pasta water. Toss on medium heat until combined. Add more pasta water as needed.

5. Plate and top with the Calabrian Chili breadcrumbs and serve!