Ultimate Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe Seriously the BEST

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) salt, plus more to taste for the water
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated if possible!)
• 8 ounces (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 4 ounces (110g) Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 4 ounces (110g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky note)
• 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter