Name: Smoky White Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Leeks
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Yield: 8 to 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb pasta, any small shape you like (I used gemeli this time); 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 2 medium-large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced and thoroughly rinsed; 2 hickory smoked turkey legs, skin removed, meat cut off the bone, and cubed; 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme; 7 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups milk, warmed; 1¼ lbs sharp white cheddar, shredded; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional; more or less to taste); ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil