Best of Mac and Cheese

Directions

1. 1
   Cook pasta in boiling water for no more than 6 minutes; drain and set aside.
2. 2
   Start the topping by melting 4 tbsp of butter in a large sauce pan over medium heat.
3. 3
   Add the dried bread cubes and toss to coat; cook for approximately 5 minutes, allowing bread to absorb butter; stir frequently to avoid burning.
4. 4
   Add 1/4 tsp salt, a pinch of freshly ground pepper, chives and parsley; stir and cook another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
5. 5
   Pre-heat oven to 375.
6. 6
   In a large sauce pan, melt remaining 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat; cook chopped garlic 1-2 minutes, until softened and fragrant, be careful to not overcook.
7. 7
   Add flour, whisking well; cook for several minutes until mixture just starts to darken slightly.
8. 8
   Add milk slowly, still whisking; continue to cook until until mixture thickens.
9. 9
   Add 1/4 tsp of salt, additional pepper and cayenne powder to thickened milk; stir well.
10. 10
    Add all shredded cheese and stir until melted; remove from heat.
11. 11
    Taste cheese sauce for seasoning, add additional salt and/or pepper if needed.
12. 12
    Add lemon juice to cheese sauce and mix well (this helps keep the cheese sauce from being stringy - does not effect the flavor!
13. 13
    ).
14. 14
    Add pasta to cheese sauce and combine gently.
15. 15
    Transfer to lightly greased 8x8 casserole dish, or you can cook in sauce pan if oven proof (to save dishes!
16. 16
    ).
17. 17
    Sprinkle bread cube topping over the top of the pasta.
18. 18
    Bake at 375 for 20-25 minutes, until topping is browned and cheese is bubbling.