Southern Pimiento Mac and Cheese

Preheat broiler with oven rack 8 to 9 inches from heat. Bring 1/4 cup salt and 4 qt. water to a boil in a large covered Dutch oven over high heat. Meanwhile, microwave milk in a microwave-safe 1-qt. glass measuring cup covered with plastic wrap at HIGH 3 minutes. While milk is heating, melt butter in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low; add flour, and cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in hot milk. Increase heat to medium-high, and bring to a low boil, whisking often. Add pasta to boiling water, and cook 8 minutes. Meanwhile, continue to cook sauce, whisking often, 6 minutes. Remove from heat; whisk in cheese, onion, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, 1 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Cover. Stir together panko and olive oil. Drain pasta, and fold into cheese sauce. Stir pimiento and bacon into pasta mixture. Sprinkle with panko mixture. Broil 1 to 2 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown. Sprinkle with chives; serve immediately.