Wasabi Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter; add onions and sauté for 3 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. Add the flour and stir to combine. Continue cooking and stirring until flour is turning a light golden brown. In a separate saucepan, heat milk and cream until just simmering. Add the roux and slowly while whisking constantly. Use an immersion blender to completely blend the roux into the milk without lumps. Slowly add cheese, whisking constantly until melted. Add milk or cream as needed to desired consistency. Season to taste with Kikkoman Wasabi Sauce.
Crunchy Panko Topping:
In a large dry sauté pan, toast Kikkoman Panko Japanese Style Bread Crumbs over low heat, stirring constantly to toast evenly. When panko is a rich golden brown, stir in peanut oil, soy salt, lemon zest and white pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
To Assemble:
In a large bowl, add cooked pasta and add sauce until desired consistency. Transfer to a baking dish and top with Crunchy Panko Topping. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven until cheese sauce is bubbling and Crunchy Panko Topping is golden brown.
Recipe by Kikkoman Foodservice Executive Chef Andrew Hunter
