Rich Man's Macaroni & Cheese

(From Ann Marie P.--K's cousin)

Serves 4

Butter (for the pan)

1 ½ cups whole milk

3 cups aged Gouda cheese

3 tablespoons arrowroot

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

1 ½ teaspoons each thyme, basil and rosemary

Salt & pepper to taste

8 ounces pasta (any shape)

1/3 cup Italian – style seasoned breadcrumbs

1. Set the oven to 425 degrees.  Butter a 2 quart baking dish.
2. For the sauce:  In a saucepan, combine the milk and 2 ½ cups of the cheese.  Heat gently, then whisk in the arrowroot gradually.  Whisk in the garlic, thyme, basil and rosemary, salt & pepper.  The sauce should be the consistency of thick cream.  Set it aside.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.   Add the pasta and stir well.  Cook the pasta for 5 minutes until it’s almost tender (it will continue to cook in the oven).  Drain it and return it to the pan.
4. Stir the sauce into the pasta.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and the breadcrumbs.
5. Bake the dish for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling at the edges.  Let it settle for 5 minutes before serving.