Macaroni and Cheese

INGREDIENTS

2 1/4 cups

dry elbow macaroni, uncooked

7 tbsp

butter

7 tbsp

flour

2 cups

milk (whole works best), plus more as needed later to thin out the sauce as needed

1 tsp

sea salt (plus more to taste)

1/2 tsp

black pepper (plus to taste)

1 1/2 tsp

garlic powder

1 tsp

dry mustard powder

1/4 tsp

cayenne pepper (optional)

2 tsp

Worcestershire sauce (optional)

1 2/3 cups

sharp cheddar, freshly grated works best

2/3 cup

mozzarella cheese, freshly grated works best (can also use Swiss, Montery Jack, gouda, Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino instead)

6 oz

cream cheese, cut into cubes (can also use Swiss, Montery Jack, gouda, Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino instead)

slices of Provolone cheese (for that extra gooeyness factor - leave out if desired)

Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Toasted Panko crumbs, for garnish (optional)

Optional add-ins

Bacon bits

Smoked Paprika (so good)

Red Pepper Flakes for a kick of heat