Let’s dive into the steps to create this heartwarming dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère cheeses, reserving a bit of each for topping. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure even coating.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

This recipe is a bit of a dance, but once you’ve got the rhythm, it becomes a joyful routine in your repertoire.