Undercook the pasta by 1 minute.
It will continue to cook in the creamy sauce while the crumb topping toasts under the broiler.
Ingredients
1/4cupplus 1 1/2 tsp.
Credit: Hector Sanchez
kosher salt, divided
1qt.
jars diced pimiento, drained
2(2.52-oz.)
Bring 1/4 cup salt and 4 qt.
water to a boil in a large covered Dutch oven over high heat.
Meanwhile, microwave milk in a microwave-safe 1-qt.
glass measuring cup covered with plastic wrap at HIGH 3 minutes.
While milk is heating, melt butter in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Reduce heat to medium-low; add flour, and cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in hot milk.
Increase heat to medium-high, and bring to a low boil, whisking often.
Add pasta to boiling water, and cook 8 minutes.
Meanwhile, continue to cook sauce, whisking often, 6 minutes.
salt, and 1/2 tsp.
Stir together panko and olive oil.
Drain pasta, and fold into cheese sauce.
Stir pimiento and bacon into pasta mixture.
Sprinkle with panko mixture.
Broil 1 to 2 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Sprinkle with chives; serve immediately.
