Mac and Cheese

Preheat oven to 350F. Generously grease a 9X13 casserole with butter or olive oil.
Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add 1 tablespoon sea salt and cook macaroni to al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Melt butter and sweat shallots and garlic until translucent. Add flour, 2 tablespoons salt and pepper and stir until thick paste has formed. Add milk and bring to a simmer until thickened. Add cheese and lower heat.
Once the cheese has melted add macaroni and stir to combine. Pour macaroni into greased casserole.
Stir together melted butter, salt and pepper, Italian herbs and parm. Sprinkle over the top of casserole and bake for 35 minutes until bubbly and browned.