Macaroni and Cheese

1 pound elbow macaroni

1 cup dry bread crumbs

1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)

1/4 cup olive oil

3 teaspoons kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the baking dish

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

6 cups whole milk

3 1/2 cups (about 14 ounces) grated sharp Cheddar



Heat oven to 400° F. Butter a casserole or 9-by-13-inch baking dish.



Cook the macaroni until almost tender but still firm, about 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.



Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, parsley (if using), oil, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper; set aside.



In a saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter. Stirring constantly, add the flour and cook for 3 minutes; the mixture will clump together. Still stirring constantly, add the milk slowly. Cook for 7 minutes. Add the Cheddar and the remaining salt and cook, stirring, until thick and creamy, about 5 minutes. Add the macaroni and combine. Transfer to the baking dish and top with the bread crumb mixture. Bake until golden and bubbling slightly around the edges, about 25 minutes.



Tip: You can vary the flavor of the bread crumbs by using a different herb, such as thyme or oregano. Or minimalists can choose to omit it.