TOPPING FOR MAC AND CHEESE RITZ RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 425°. In a 6-qt. stockpot, cook macaroni according to package directions for al dente; drain and return to pot. , Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat 1/4 cup butter and pepper flakes over medium heat until butter is melted. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes. , Stir in Gruyere, mascarpone, mustard, salt and pepper until blended. Add sauce to macaroni, tossing to combine. Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Melt remaining butter. Add panko and Italian seasoning; toss to coat. Sprinkle over macaroni. Bake, uncovered, until topping is golden brown, 10-15 minutes.

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat
• Once the butter has melted, whisk in flour and cook until it begins to smell nutty and fragrant, about 45-60 seconds
• Whisk in milk and stock, and continue whisking vigorously until flour and butter have dissolved
• Bring to sauce to a bubble and thicken, about 3-4 minutes
• Once sauce is thick, remove from heat and mix in mustard and cheddar cheese
• Stir until cheese is completely melted