Bake your cheesy penne pasta until bubbly and golden.
This creamy, cheesy, baked penne pasta dish is a favorite amongst kids and adults alike. It may be described as "mac n' cheese for grown-ups" due to its more "sophisticated" ingredients such as penne pasta instead of elbow macaroni and a sinfully rich mixture of white cheddar, Parmesan and Gorgonzola cheeses. It is easy to substitute your own favorite cheese or add healthy ingredients, such as stewed tomatoes, mushrooms or fresh spinach. Serve hot alongside salad and garlic bread for a memorable dinner.
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Whisk flour into the butter until the mixture is smooth and cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add milk and whisk constantly until the sauce is smooth and thick. Cook over moderately low heat for about 5 minutes, while continuing to whisk.
4. Add the cheeses to the sauce and stir until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook penne pasta until al dente in a large pot of boiling water (according to package instructions). Drain pasta and return it to the pot.
6. Mix the cheese sauce with the penne and spoon into a greased 9x13-inch or equivalent rectangular baking dish. Sprinkle the top with bread crumbs.
7. Bake until the pasta is golden and bubbling, approximately 25 minutes.
8. Allow the pasta to cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot.
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