Two-Cheese Mac ‘n Cheese

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic if desired; cook and stir for 1 minute. Stir in flour, pepper and salt until blended; cook and stir until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook until thickened, about 2 minutes longer.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in 4 cups cheddar cheese and Asiago cheese until melted. Mixture will thicken.
4. Preheat oven to 350°. Drain pasta; stir in cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
5. Bake, uncovered, until golden brown, 35-40 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.