"Queso Fundido" Mac & Cheese

Directions

1. 1
   Cook pasta as directed on package.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, melt 2 cups of the butter (or 3 Tbsp.
3. 3
   of the butter for trial recipe) in large saucepot on medium-low heat.
4. 4
   Add combined flour, salt and pepper; cook 2 to 3 min.
5. 5
   or until thickened and bubbly, stirring constantly.
6. 6
   Gradually stir in milk; cook until mixture just comes to boil and thickens, stirring frequently.
7. 7
   Add Cheddar cheese and cream cheese; cook until melted, stirring frequently.
8. 8
   Drain pasta; place in large bowl.
9. 9
   Add sauce; toss to coat.
10. 10
    Melt remaining 2 cups butter (or remaining 3 Tbsp.
11. 11
    butter for trial recipe).
12. 12
    Mix with cracker crumbs and herbs.
13. 13
    For each serving: Spread about 1/3 cup chorizo onto bottom of 5-inch crock; top with 1/2 cup queso blanco cheese, 1 cup of the pasta mixture and about 3 Tbsp.
14. 14
    crumb mixture.
15. 15
    Bake in 300 degrees F-convection oven 10 min.
16. 16
    or until bubbly and lightly browned.
17. 17
    Top with additional 1 Tbsp.
18. 18
    chorizo.