Macaroni and Cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue to stir until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated and heated through.
7. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a serving dish. Optionally, you can place it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve immediately as a side dish or main course.