Baked Jalapeño Popper Macaroni & Cheese

INGREDIENTS

12 oz

macaroni pasta

3 tbsp

butter

4 tbsp

flour

2 cups

half & half (or milk)

1 12 ounce can

evaporated milk

1 tbsp

corn starch

2 tsp

dijon mustard

1 tsp

dried Italian seasoning blend

salt and pepper to taste (I used about 2/4 teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper)

4 oz

cream cheese, softened

2 cups

shredded pepperjack cheese, divided

1/2 cup

sliced jalapeños (see note)

2/3 cup

panko style breadcrumbs

1/2 tsp

Italian seasoning

2 tbsp

butter