Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • salt
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 3/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 lb colby cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • pepper

Method

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Mix melted butter with the breadcrumbs.
  • Cook macaroni in 4 quarts salted boiling water, al dente, then drain.
  • Dry pot and melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add garlic, mustard, and cayenne pepper. Cook approximately 30 seconds.
  • Add flour, cook until golden.
  • Slowly add milk and broth, whisking as it is added. Simmer and whisk approximately 6 minutes. Liquid should coat the back of a spoon.
  • Remove from heat.
  • Whisk in cheese until melted. Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add cooked pasta, mix evenly.
  • Place mixture in 9x13 pan, cover surface with breadcrumbs. Bake 25-30 minutes. Breadcrumbs will be brown and the edges should be bubbling.
  • Cool 10 minutes.