Ingredients
Method
- Add pasta to a pot of boiling salted water. Cook according to package instructions and drain when al dente. The pasta should be ready just before your sauce.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the milk and cream in a pot, making sure not to allow it to come to a boil.
- Melt 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot. Add the flour and whisk while it cooks on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the hot milk and cream while whisking and cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and mix in the gruyere, cheddar, parmesan, salt, nutmeg, paprika, and pepper.
- Melt one or two tablespoons of butter in a pan and mix with the breadcrumbs. Cook over medium heat while stirring until the breadcrumbs are a light golden color. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix in about three tablespoons of shredded parmesan.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer to a baking dish and top with more cheddar, parmesan, and the toasted breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for about 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Pro Tips:
- Freshly grate your cheese — pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don't overcook the pasta — cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use a mix of cheeses — gruyere adds nuttiness, sharp cheddar adds tang, and parmesan adds depth.