I had a similar experience -- pre SBD. My MIL makes the 'best' macaroni and cheese, according to her sons. I can make a pretty good copy. Several years back, I decided to use Barefoot Contessa's recipe with gouda cheese in bechamel sauce. It was, honestly, to die for. I served it for some holiday. DH and his two brothers were horrified that I had messed with The Recipe. They did NOT have an open mind about gouda. Silly boys!