Sharp White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

How to Make

• Step 1: Pasta ... Cook the pasta according to package directions. I under cook the pasta a bit as it will finish in the oven.

• Step 2: Topping ... Add the bread slices to a small food process and pulse until you can crumbs; I don't make them too fine. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 5 minutes until lightly golden brown. Toss with the parsley and butter.

• Step 3: Sauce ... Make the sauce as the pasta cooks. Add the butter to a medium pot and melt on medium heat. Add the flour and cook another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly add in the milk and bring to a light boil to thicken the sauce. Remove from the heat and slowly add in 2 cups of cheese, continuing to stir. Return to the heat on low and add in the nutmeg, cayenne, salt, pepper and chives.

• Step 4: Finish and Broil ... Add the sauce to the pasta and mix well, check again if any additional salt or pepper is needed. Transfer to a baking dish sprayed with Pam or a non-stick spray and finish with the remaining cheese and the topping. Broil on the second shelf so the topping doesn't burn.

• Step 5: Serve ... If you want to make this a main dish, add some diced ham or bacon. But it is good as is. ENJOY!