Crispy Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to the packaged instructions (around 7-8 minutes). In a large bowl, mix together the grated cheeses. In a large pot, add unsalted butter and heat over medium heat until melted. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring often. Gradually stream in whole milk and heavy cream while whisking. Once thickened, add the mixed grated cheeses (1.5 cups at a time) and whisk until melted and combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drain macaroni and pour into the cheese sauce, folding together to coat thoroughly. Grab your cast iron pan, add in half of the cheesy macaroni followed by the remaining grated cheese and the other half of macaroni. Optionally toss the remaining grated cheese with chopped thyme and add to the top layer of the macaroni. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.