For the Cream Sauce
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
For the Cheesy Topping
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish)
Necessary Tools
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
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Medium saucepan
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Whisk
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Aluminum foil
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Oven
Possible Additions & Substitutions
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Add cooked bacon or ham between layers.
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Stir in sautéed onions for deeper flavor.
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Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
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Swap cheeses — Gruyère or Monterey Jack work beautifully.
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Use half-and-half instead of milk and cream if preferred.