Cheesemonger's Mac and Cheese |
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Prep Time: 0 Minutes Cook Time: 0 Minutes |
Ready In: 0 Minutes Servings: 8 |
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Cheddar, Gruyère, and Brie help push this over the top. Use local, artisan-style cheeses, if you can. Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups coarsely grated gruyère cheese |
1 1/2 cups coarsely grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 6 ounces) |
1 1/2 cups diced rindless brie (cut from 1-pound wedge) |
5 tablespoons butter, divided |
1/4 cup all purpose flour |
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves |
3/4 teaspoon (scant) nutmeg |
4 cups whole milk |
1 3/4 cups fresh breadcrumbs made from crustless french bread |
1 pound penne pasta |
8 teaspoons whipping cream (if making 1 day ahead) |
Directions:
1. Mix all cheeses. Set aside 1 cup for topping; cover and chill. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir until mixture turns golden brown, about 4 minutes. Add thyme and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened and smooth, stirring often, about 4 minutes. Add cheeses from large bowl. Stir until melted and smooth.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add breadcrumbs; toss. Stir until golden, about 2 minutes. Transfer to plate.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until tender but firm to bite. Drain. Transfer to large bowl. Pour cheese sauce over; toss. Divide among eight 1 1/4-cup custard cups. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheese. Place cups on rimmed baking sheet. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover with foil; chill. Drizzle each with 1 teaspoon cream. Cover with foil; bake 15 minutes. Uncover. Sprinkle partially baked chilled or just assembled cups with breadcrumbs. Bake pasta until beginning to bubble and tops are golden, about 20 minutes.
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