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1
Butter a 2 quart baking dish.
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2
Preheat the broiler and arrange a rack on top.
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3
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan over low heat.
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4
In a large bowl add the garlic, basil, panko, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan.
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5
Add the melted butter and toss to combine.
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6
Reserve.
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7
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat.
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8
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
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9
Meanwhile, put the half-and-half in a small pot and bring to a simmer over low heat.
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10
Simmer until reduced and slightly thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
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11
Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the pasta.
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12
Put the pot over low heat and add the half-and-half mixture.
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13
When it simmers, add the goat cheese and whisk until smooth.
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14
Add in the remaining Parmesan and whisk until melted.
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15
Add the pasta and stir to coat.
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16
Stir in the pesto, reserved cooking water, salt, and pepper.
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17
Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.
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18
Pour the pasta mixture into the buttered baking dish and top with the panko mixture.
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19
Put under the broiler until the mixture bubbles and the top is browned, about 1 to 2 minutes.
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20
Remove from the broiler and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
