Here's Why Eating More Melted Cheese Will Make You Happier

If you've ever felt powerless when faced with a basket of steaming hot mozzarella sticks, a bowl of macaroni and cheese, or an overflowing grilled cheese, you aren't alone. In fact, a study released by Yale University at the end of last year confirmed it — cheese is basically crack (sort of).

Now that you have come to terms with the fact that it's more of an addiction than a craving, let's discuss what really happens to your brain when you eat cheese. When you eat cheese, which contains casein, the brain's opioid censors light up like a Christmas tree.

Another difficult-to-say-no-to component, based on this study, was fat. The fattier, more processed the casein-filled cheese, the more likely it is to mess with your dopamine receptors.

Still, we are inclined to think that this is a side-effect we can live with (at least in moderation), so here are a few ooey, gooey cheese dishes to feed your habit, but please cheese responsibly.

Prosciutto, mushrooms, and  make for an upscale version your childhood favorite . — Emeril Lagasse

For the Fontina, Mushroom, and Truffle Grilled Cheese Sandwiches recipe, click here.

If you love , then you'll love this burger. The burger is topped with melted cheese and chunky  and served on a toasty bun. — Kristie Collado

For the Melty Mozzarella Burger recipe, click here.

A Cheddar and fontina macaroni and cheese is topped with a crispy Parmigiano-Reggiano, breadcrumbs crust.

For the Super Macaroni and Cheese recipe, click here.

The accompanying slideshow is provided by special contributor, Kristie Collado.