1 (16-ounce) package cavatappi pasta, cooked according to package directions
4 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided
½ cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)
4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, garlic, salt, Worcestershire, mustard, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes. Whisk in milk and sour cream until smooth; bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 4 minutes. Whisk in 3½ cups cheese until melted. Stir in cooked pasta and 2 tablespoons chives until combined.
In a small bowl, stir together bread crumbs, bacon, melted butter, remaining ½ cup cheese, and remaining 2 tablespoons chives. Sprinkle over pasta mixture.
Bake until golden brown and bubbly, 15 to 20 minutes.
Recipe by Southern Cast Iron at https://southerncastiron.com/loaded-mac-and-cheese/