Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (or other tubular pasta), cooked
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 3 to 4-quart baking dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese:
   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   • Prepare the pasta according to package instructions, cooking it one minute less than al dente.
   • Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Set aside to cool.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, Dutch oven, or stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
5. Add Liquids:
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until smooth.
   • Let it come to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2 minutes, whisking occasionally.
   • Season with salt and pepper.
6. Incorporate the Cheese:
   • Add two cups of the shredded cheese to the sauce, whisking until smooth.
   • Add the remaining cheese and whisk until fully melted and creamy.
   • The sauce should be thick and velvety.
7. Combine with Pasta:
   • Stir the cooled pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated.
8. Assemble:
   • Transfer half of the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle with 2 cups of the remaining shredded cheese, then top with the rest of the mac and cheese.
9. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika.
   • Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake:
    • Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition