Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

INGREDIENTS

6 tbsp

unsalted butter, divided

1/2 cup

heavy cream

2 cups

half-and-half

1/2 tsp

ground black pepper

1/4 tsp

red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp

ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp

ground mustard

2 tsp

all-purpose flour

3 1/2 cups

shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 pound)

1 cup

shredded manchego cheese (about ¼ pound)

1 cup

shredded Gruyere cheese (about ¼ pound)

8 cups

water

1 1/2 tsp

coarse salt

1 lb

elbow macaroni

large eggs, beaten

1 tsp

smoked paprika