Recipe

Make Mac and Cheese

1. Position rack in middle of oven and preheat to 425F. Generously butter half sheet pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In large bowl, mix together cheddar and Gruyere. Measure out 3 cups of cheese mixture and set aside for topping. Set large bowl with remaining cheese near stovetop.
3. In small bowl, combine panko, Parmigiano-Reggiano, melted butter, salt and cayenne. Generously season with black pepper and stir until breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
4. In large pot, combine pasta, milk, and 2 1/2 cups of water. Set pot over medium-high heat and bring to a lively simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring often, until al dente, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in smoked paprika. Add cheese mixture from large bowl, one handful at a time, stirring to melt after each addition. Generously season with black pepper and stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to prepared sheet pan and spread in even layer. Cover with reserved cheeses and sprinkle with breadcrumb mixture. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, rotating pan front to back halfway through, or until deeply golden and crispy. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.