MACARONI AND THREE CHEESES WITH GARLIC BREADCRUMBS

Macaroni and Three Cheeses with Garlic Breadcrumbs image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 55m

Number Of Ingredients 12

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1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, at room temperature, plus more for the pan
Kosher salt
1 pound mini penne or pennette
1 1/2 pounds coarsely grated havarti, gouda, and fontina cheeses, at room temperature (about 6 cups)
1 large egg, beaten
2 cups evaporated milk
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 cloves garlic, finely grated
Freshly ground pepper
2 ounces baguette, torn into small pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Butter a 2 1/2-quart baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Add the penne and cook, until just al dente, about 5 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add the havarti, gouda, and fontina cheeses and 1 tablespoon butter to the hot pasta and stir gently until cheeses begin to melt.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg, evaporated milk, paprika, half the garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Stir the egg mixture into the macaroni pasta. Transfer to the prepared baking dish; bake covered for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, pulse the bread in a food processor with the olive oil, remaining garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper; stir in the thyme leaves.
4. Uncover the casserole, sprinkle the pasta with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 15 minutes more. Serve immediately.