Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 ½cupsshredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
½cupfreshly grated Parmesan
1cupPanko*
Instructions
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
Preheat oven to broil on high. Arrange an oven rack 6-inches from the broiler. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and shallot, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Whisk in flour and paprika until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream and Dijon until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, Parmesan and pasta until well combined; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
In a small bowl, combine Panko and remaining 2 cups cheddar cheese.
Spread pasta mixture into the prepared sheet pan; sprinkle with Panko mixture.
Place into oven and broil, rotating the sheet pan a few times, until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes.
Serve immediately.
Notes
*Panko is a Japanese-style breadcrumb and can be found in the Asian section of your local grocery store.