- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Serves:8
To create this comforting classic, we combine two kinds of cheeses: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy taste, while smoked Gouda lends a delightfully smoky flavor and creamy texture.
Recipe courtesy of Williams-Sonoma.com
Ingredients
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4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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3 1/2 cups milk
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
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2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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4 ounces crustless country-style bread
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 pound rigatoni, cooked until al dente and drained
Preparation
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1
Preheat an oven to 375°F. Butter a large rectangular baking dish.
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2
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons butter. Add the flour and cook, stirring frequently, about 3 minutes. Whisk in the milk and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in the tomato paste.
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3
Add 1 1/2 cups of each cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt, black pepper and cayenne.
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4
Tear the bread into crumbs. In a small bowl, stir together the bread crumbs and the 2 tablespoons melted butter and season with salt.
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5
In a large bowl, combine the pasta and the cheese sauce, then pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses and the buttered bread crumbs.
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6
Bake until the cheeses are golden and bubbly, about 40 minutes. If the top becomes too dark, cover with aluminum foil. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Additional Info