Instructions

1. For the mac 'n' cheese:
2. Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot.
3. Salt generously, and then add the pasta and cook to box instructions, usually 6 to 7 minutes.
4. Drain.
5. In another large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
6. Whisk in the flour and continue whisking until it deepens in color and releases a light toasted aroma, about 1 minute.
7. Whisk in the Thai red curry paste, and when fully combined, pour in the milk and cream (or all milk, if using).
8. Bring to a boil, whisking constantly, and then turn down to a simmer.
9. Simmer until the mixture thickens, whisking occasionally, about 5 minutes.
10. Off heat, whisk in the cheeses and stir until melted.
11. Add the pasta and toss to combine.
12. Turn your broiler on.
13. For the crumb topping:
14. Toss the panko with the melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
15. To assemble:
16. Pour the mac 'n' cheese into a broiler-safe casserole dish, sprinkle with the bread crumb mixture, and broil until browned, about 1 minute.