Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese: Grandma's Secret Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) elbow macaroni
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) salt for pasta water
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) ground nutmeg (optional)
• 4 cups (400g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyere cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) panko bread crumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter (optional)