Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions (it should be very al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce
   In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in warmed milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Add the cheese mixture
   Reduce heat to low and gradually add 1 1/2 cups cheddar, all the colby jack, and all the smoked gouda, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Temper the eggs
   In a small bowl, whisk the beaten eggs. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot cheese sauce to the eggs while whisking constantly to temper them. Then pour the egg mixture back into the cheese sauce, stirring continuously.
5. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and fold gently until all pasta is evenly coated. The mixture should look wet as the pasta will absorb more sauce while baking.
6. Prepare for baking
   Transfer half of the mac and cheese mixture to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the remaining cheddar cheese. Add the remaining mac and cheese and top with the rest of the cheddar cheese. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the top. Sprinkle with a little additional paprika for color.
7. Bake to perfection
   Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown with crispy edges. For an extra golden top, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
8. Rest and serve
   Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set and makes for easier serving.