Get ready for orangey fingers because National Cheetos Day is March 5! I assume you’re all planning a complete Cheetos party with decorations, costumes, and more. Just don’t forget the food, and I don’t mean bags and bags of crunchy orange flavored snacks. These addictive snacks are capable of so much more, so why not take an old favorite to the next level with a crunchy twist? Mac and Cheetos, a.k.a. the junk food meal of the gods!

Mac and Cheese, the ultimate comfort food, gets a lift with the addition of crushed Cheetos hidden under a protective layer of heavenly cheese. Irresistibly warm and delicious, this baked mac and cheese is topped with even more Cheetos to push you over the indulgent edge. Happy Cheetos Day everyone; consume responsibly.

Mac n Cheetos
1 lb (4 cups) elbow pasta
3 cups cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
salt and pepper
1 cup Cheetos, crushed fine
1 cup Cheddar Cheese
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 cup Cheetos

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Prep four large ramekins (or 8 small) by greasing them with butter.

Boil the pasta according to the package. Drain but do not rinse.

In a large bowl stir together the three cups of cheese, heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the drained pasta, season with salt and pepper and stir.

Pour mixture into the prepped ramekins. Top with crushed Cheetos, then the additional one cup of cheese to cover. Evenly distribute the butter pieces on top of each ramekin.

Place the ramekins on a baking sheet in case it bubbles over. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Let cool slightly, top with extra Cheetos and serve.

IMAGES: Jenn Fujikawa