Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

Begin by gathering the cheeses for a rich, flavorful blend. Use cheddar cheese, white sharp cheddar cheese, and gouda cheese. For the best taste and meltability, buy block cheese and shred it yourself.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a nonstick pot, melt about 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, creating a smooth roux that will thicken the cheese sauce.
Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously. This step forms the creamy base of the sauce.
Slowly add the shredded cheese to the mixture, whisking until it's creamy and all the cheese is fully melted. The combination of cheddar, white sharp cheddar, and gouda will give your sauce a rich and delicious flavor.
Season the sauce with paprika, sea salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning to taste. Adjust the spices to your preference, keeping in mind that the Creole seasoning can add a bit of heat.
Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions, then drain it.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni pasta and stir well to ensure even coating.
Add more shredded cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Cover the mac and cheese with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the cheesy goodness.
After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and continue to bake until the top is beautifully browned and bubbly.

Enjoy your Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese, a creamy and cheesy delight!