12 ounces medium shell pasta (or penne, cavatappi)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Two 6-ounce cans wild sockeye or coho salmon, drained
1 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cook pasta in heavily salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat. Stir in the grated cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted.
Gently fold in the drained pasta, flaked salmon, frozen peas, fresh dill, and lemon juice. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture is too thick.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, toss panko with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best results, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.