1poundelbow pasta or other small pasta. See Note 1
2tablespoonsunsalted butter
½teaspoonsalt
Mac and Cheese and Topping
3Tablespoonsflour
3Tablespoonsunsalted butter
2cupsevaporated milk
1cupchicken stock
¼teaspoonblack pepper
8oz.mozzarella cheese blockshredded on a box grater
8oz.sharp cheddar cheese blockshredded on a box grater
8oz.colby jack cheese blockshredded on a box grater
Salt as needed or to taste
½cuppanko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Macaroni
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the half teaspoon of salt. Add Macaroni and cook for 7 minutes.
Drain macaroni, return to the pot, add the two tablespoons of butter and toss. Set aside while you make the sauce.
Sauce
Preheat oven to 350° F.
Remove half cup of each of the cheeses and reserve for the topping.
Place a large pan on medium heat. I used my 12 inch cast iron skillet. Add the butter and let it melt. Whisk in the flour, stirring from time to time until in turns a light brown color. 3-4 minutes.
Gradually whisk in a 3rd of the milk. When it is well combined with the flour and butter whisk in half of the remaining milk then whisk in the remaining milk. It is important to whisk in the milk gradually so it can incorporate well with the flour and butter.
Pour in the chicken stock, whisk to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low. Then add in the 3 cheeses (remember, half cup of each should be reserved at this point). Stir until the cheese are completely melted.
Add the black pepper to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
Add the macaroni to the pan and toss well so the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese top. Taste at this point and add more salt if needed. I find that the cheeses and chicken stock are salty enough so there is usually no need to add more salt.
Level the top of the mac and cheese, sprinkle on the reserved cheese for the topping and the panko breadcrumbs.
Place into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until it is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted. It should be a golden brown color on top. If it isn't golden brown on top, turn on the broiler for 2 minutes to brown the top. Garnish with chopped parsley is desired.