DELICIOUS AS SIDE DISH OR ENTREE

Cheesemonger's Mac and Cheese

Bon Appétit  | September 2007  Kate and Matt Jennings La Laiterie at Farmstead

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)

Preparation

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.

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add breadcrumbs; toss. Stir until golden, about 2 minutes. Transfer to plate.

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.

Posted by Chef Bill Brooks, Corporate Chef, U.S. Foodservice, Inc

Opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily

reflect those of U.S. Foodservice, Inc