MACARONI & CHEESE

Yield: 2-3 servings. Recipe can be doubled for family size.


INGREDIENTS

1 cup uncooked macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese*
Salt
Pepper


DIRECTIONS

1. In a large saucepan, boil macaroni for 8-10 minutes. Drain into a colander and set aside.

2. Place the empty saucepan over medium high heat until dry. Melt butter. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 15 seconds. Slowly add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook, whisking occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until the milk thickens and bubbles constantly.

3. Gradually add cheese and stir with a wooden spoon until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shut off heat. Add cooked macaroni and stir until evenly coated in cheese sauce. If necessary, season with additional salt and pepper. Serve.

TO ADD BREADCRUMB TOPPING: In food processor, add 1 slice sandwich bread and 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter. Process for 30 seconds to 1 minute until coarse crumbs form. Butter a casserole dish. Add macaroni and cheese to dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until topping begins to brown. Serve.


*If using packaged cheese, use traditional cut.