Creamy Macaroni And Cheese

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, add the ziti and cook until tender, approximately 12 minutes. Drain and cool under cold running water. Drain again and reserve. Butter an eight-inch baking dish.

2. Step 2

   In a medium-size saucepan, melt four tablespoons of the butter just until it foams. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the flour. Return the saucepan to moderate heat and whisk until the mixture bubbles, about three minutes. Whisk in the salt and mustard and add the milk. Continue whisking and bring to a boil over high heat. When the mixture bubbles and begins to thicken, after about 10 minutes, allow it to boil for three minutes more, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and add the Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco. Fold in the cheese and continue to whisk until blended and smooth. Fold the ziti into the cheese mixture and pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish.

3. Step 3

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

4. Step 4

   In a small saucepan, heat the remaining butter over moderate heat. Add the bread crumbs and toss for four or five minutes until lightly toasted. Sprinkle the crumbs over the ziti and bake for 25 minutes and serve.