White Cheddar Mac 'n Cheese with Crispy Pepperoni Topping 

by Heather H. of Kitchen Concoctions: www.kitchen-concoctions.com 

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Serves: 4

Hearty white cheddar mac 'n cheese topped with a crispy and crunchy pepperoni topping! 

Ingredients:

Crispy Pepperoni Topping:

1-2 tablespoons butter, divided

1/2 cup original Hormel Pepperoni Minis

½ cup Panko bread crumbs

White Cheddar Mac 'n Cheese:

½ pound macaroni, shell or cavatappi pasta (or small pasta of choice)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups whole milk

1 cup half and half cream

½ tablespoon dry mustard

½ teaspoon each salt and black pepper, or to taste

1 ½ cups freshly grated white cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Using ½ to 1 tablespoon butter generously butter an 8x8-inch baking dish. Set aside.

To make crispy pepperoni topping, melt ½ tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pepperoni and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Using a slotted spoon transfer half of the pepperoni to a paper towel lined plate and set aside to stir into prepared pasta. Add bread crumbs to remaining pepperoni in skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy, adding additional butter if needed. Set pepperoni and bread crumb mixture aside.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add desired pasta and cook according to package directions, just until tender. Drain cooked pasta in a colander and return to pot.

To make cheese sauce, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large sauce pan over medium heat. Once completely melted whisk in flour, whisking for 1 minute or until well combined. Gradually whisk in milk, half and half, and mustard. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, whisking occasionally, or until sauce has thickened. Whisk in grated cheese, whisking until completely melted. If sauce becomes too thick, add additional milk, if needed. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Pour prepared cheese sauce over cooked and drained pasta. Add the reserved ¼ cup of cooked pepperoni minis, stir to combine. Pour macaroni and cheese into prepared baking dish. Top with crispy pepperoni and bread crumb topping. Bake in preheated 375 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes or until hot and bubbly.