INGREDIENTS
•
2 tablespoons butter, melted
•
3/4 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs) or coarse dry bread crumbs
•
3 cups (12-ounces) shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, divided
•
8 ounces dry penne pasta
•
1 tablespoon black truffle oil (optional)
•
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
•
4 slices (4 ounces) uncooked smoked bacon, chopped
•
2 tablespoons minced shallots or green onions
•
1 tablespoon minced garlic
•
1/4 tablespoon dried thyme
•
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
•
1 1/2 cups half and half cream
•
1/4 teaspoon salt
•
1/8 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
•
1 tablespoons minced fresh basil leaves