Paella-Inspired Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Mixed seafood (2 cups (like shrimp, mussels, and calamari))
• Chicken broth (1 cup)
• Saffron threads (1/2 teaspoon)
• Red bell pepper (1, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1, diced)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni until al dente according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sauté until softened and aromatic.
4. Stir in the saffron threads to the skillet, allowing them to bloom and release their flavor.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Add the mixed seafood and cook until they are fully cooked.
6. In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine the mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir until they melt together into a smooth, creamy sauce.
7. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni, saffron-seafood mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until well mixed and every piece of macaroni is coated in the sauce.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.