Instructions:

  1. Set a large pot of heavily salted water to boil. Cook the macaroni about a minute shy of the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the Kerrygold Unsalted Butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk for 1 minute until a paste forms and the mixture begins to bubble but does not brown.
  3. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk and turn the heat to medium-low as soon as the mixture thickens. Whisk in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, the nutmeg, and the ground mustard.
  4. Stir in the cheeses; when thoroughly melted, add the cooked macaroni and stir well to combine.
  5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the panko, thyme leaves, and remaining salt and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni mixture.
  7. Bake uncovered until the sauce is bubbly on the sides and the panko is browned and crispy on top, about 15 minutes.