Ingredients
1 lb. cavatappi pasta
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tbsp. salt
1/2 tbsp. Black pepper
4 c. milk
4 c. shredded sharp white cheddar, divided into 3 1/2 c and 1/2 c
2 c. shredded pepper Jack cheese
3 tbsp. butter
1/4 c. panko breadcrumbs
1/4 c. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
Preparation
Step 1Preheat oven to 350º. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.Step 2 Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour, whisking to create a roux. Add cayenne, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in milk, whisking as you go. Keep whisking as it simmers and thickens, 5-6 minutes. Add cheddar and Pepper Jack, stirring until melted and combined. Remove mixture from heat. Add pasta to a 9-inch-by-13-inch baking dish and pour cheese sauce on top, stirring gently to combine. Step 3Melt butter over medium heat. Add panko and Cheetos, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes, or until lightly golden. Sprinkle on top of macaroni in an even layer. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until cheese has melted, then serve.
