Homemade pasta and cheese casserole
Description
A crispy crust made from slices of white bread gives this simple casserole a new flavor. Serve cooled or slightly warm.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. Preheat the oven to 190 degrees. Grease a large baking dish with butter and set aside. Trim crusts off the bread and cut into small cubes. Place the bread in a bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour the melted butter over the bread and mix well. Set aside. Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. When the butter begins to bubble, add the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the hot milk. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, 8 to 12 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
2. Remove the saucepan from heat. Add salt, nutmeg, black pepper, cayenne pepper, 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese. Stir until well combined, then set the cheese sauce aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, rinse under cold running water, and dry thoroughly. Mix the pasta with the cheese sauce.
- 3
Step 3
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, and cubes of white bread. Bake until golden, about 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes, then serve.