Pasta with Cheese and Bread Crust
Ingredients: - approximately 500 g short pasta - 5 tablespoons butter - 2 tablespoons flour - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper - 1 ½ - 2 cups milk - 1 cup (120 g) grated cheddar cheese - 100 - 150 g smoked cheese or smoked cheese cut into cubes - breadcrumbs (older than 1 day) - butter, cut into cubes
To prepare a delicious pasta recipe with cheese sauce, we start by boiling our favorite pasta, choosing a type that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce we will make. Fill a large pot with water and add a good tablespoon of salt, then let the water boil. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the pasta and cook it al dente, according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is ready, drain it well in a colander and let it cool slightly to prevent it from sticking together.
Meanwhile, we begin to prepare the cheese sauce. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted and starts to bubble, gradually add the flour, constantly whisking to avoid lumps. It is important to cook the flour for a few minutes until it takes on a slightly golden hue, which will add a pleasant flavor to the sauce.
After the flour is cooked, start gradually adding the milk while continuing to stir. Once you have added all the milk, slightly increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken slightly, having a creamy consistency. Now is the time to add your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or goat cheese, stirring until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
In a heatproof dish, add the cooked and drained pasta, then pour the cheese sauce over the top. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Level the mixture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, along with a few pieces of butter to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Drizzle everything with the remaining melted butter for extra flavor.
Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius and place the dish with pasta inside. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy. When ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve this dish warm, alongside a fresh salad or a glass of white wine, for a perfect and comforting meal. This recipe is not only simple but also a delight that will surely impress anyone who tastes it.
