Smoked Cheddar Mac ‘n Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (Orchechette works well)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup, plus 1 tablespoon, all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces smoked cheddar, grated (about 4 cups)
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs