Ingredients

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese (block form is best for shredding)
• 1 pound Colby Jack cheese
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (yellow preferred)
• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Shred the mozzarella, Colby Jack, and cheddar into a large bowl. Mix them together, then transfer half of the shredded cheese into a separate bowl.
3. Cook the cavatappi pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
5. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add half of the seasoning mixture and stir to combine.
6. Sprinkle in the flour and immediately whisk. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes bubbly.
7. Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, whisking constantly. Once it begins to thicken and bubble in the center, add the heavy cream, remaining seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
8. Add half of the shredded cheese mixture to the skillet, one handful at a time, stirring until each addition melts fully before adding more.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
10. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with one-third of the remaining cheese. Add the rest of the pasta on top, then finish with the remaining cheese.
11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
12. Switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes to create a golden, bubbly top.
13. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

• You can substitute 1 teaspoon of mustard powder for Dijon mustard.
• The mozzarella amount can be reduced by up to ½ pound if desired.