THREE CHEESE MAC WITH CHEEZ-IT HERB CRUMB CRUST

Three Cheese Mac with Cheez-It Herb Crumb Crust image

Provided by Justin Balmes

Time 45m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

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Salt
1 pound penne pasta
1/2 box Cheez-it crackers
1 bunch fresh chives, chopped
1 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons grated aged Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup grated fontina cheese
2 tablespoons crumbled soft goat cheese
2 cups heavy cream
Freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

Set the oven to broil. Add the pasta to a pot of boiling salted water and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes.
Pulse the crackers in a food processor to a coarse consistency. Mix with the chives and parsley.
Whisk the butter and flour in a medium saucepot over medium-high heat until fully incorporated and bubbly. Add the milk and bring to a simmer, whisking the entire time. Whisk in the cheeses, a little at a time, until thoroughly combined. Add the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
Strain the pasta and mix with the cheesy sauce. Spoon into oven-safe baking vessels and top with the crumb crust. Place under the broiler until lightly toasted and bubbling, 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully so the mac doesn't burn.