# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 oz elbow macaroni
→ Cheese Sauce
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 3 cups whole milk
05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
06 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
07 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
09 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
11 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
12 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
13 - 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
14 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
→ Topping
15 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
16 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
17 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Heat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 - Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
03 - Melt 1/4 cup butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes.
05 - Incorporate Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
06 - Add sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
07 - Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until coated evenly.
08 - Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
09 - In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Evenly sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
10 - Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden and bubbling.
11 - Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
