4-Cheese Mac and Cheese with Spicy Chili Crust

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup diced or grated cheeses (equal parts parmesan reggiano, mezze secco, hard provolone and manchego)
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1 splash truffle oil, to taste
• 1 pound elbow macaroni, partially cooked
• 1/4 cup toasted panko bread crumbs mixed with a pinch of red pepper (ancho, aleppo, or urfa all work very well)

Directions

In a medium saucepan over high heat, bring the cream to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the mixed cheeses until smooth. Add the pepper and truffle oil. Add the partially cooked pasta letting it finish cooking in the cheese mix, about 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon into ramekins or other serving dish and top with the bread crumbs.