Triple-Cheese Spirals

Directions

1. 1
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. 3
   Add the flour, mustard and cayenne and stir with a wooden spoon to make a paste.
4. 4
   Cook, stirring, until the paste puffs slightly, about 1 minute.
5. 5
   Whisk in both milks and 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer, whisking occasionally, until slightly thickened and creamy, 6 to 7 minutes.
6. 6
   Add the cheddar and jack cheeses and all but 2 tablespoons of the parmesan and whisk until melted; keep warm.
7. 7
   Combine the panko, herbs and/or scallions, 1 tablespoon butter and the remaining parmesan in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until the butter melts, about 1 minute; toss.
8. 8
   Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup cooking water, and return to the pot.
9. 9
   Toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, then stir in the cheese sauce, adding the reserved cooking water if needed.
10. 10
    Season with salt and top with the breadcrumb mixture.
11. 11
    Photograph by Con Poulos