MACARONI AND CHEESE (FOR A CROWD)

MACARONI AND CHEESE (FOR A CROWD) image

Yield 10-12 people

Number Of Ingredients 9

4 (8-ounce) packages elbow macaroni
1 cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
8 cups whole milk
4 teaspoons salt
8 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (1/2 sharp, 1/2 mild)
1-2 cups mild Cheddar cheese, reserved to bake on top
4 eggs, beaten
Paprika

Steps:

Cook macaroni according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain well and set aside. Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; add flour, stirring with a whisk until smooth. Cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. Gradually add milk; cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened and bubbly. Stir in salt and cheese, stirring until cheese melts. Gradually stir about one-fourth of hot mixture into eggs; add to remaining hot mixture, stirring constantly. Stir cheese sauce into macaroni; pour into two lightly greased 1 3/4-quart baking dishes. Sprinkle remaining cheese and paprika on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.