Mac n Cheese

Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 cups whole milk

- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

- 1/2 cup shredded gruyere or Gouda cheese (optional)

- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

- 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

4. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and any other cheeses you're using. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Season the cheese sauce with ground mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings to suit your preference.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.

7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, creating a breadcrumb topping.

9. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the pasta.

10. Bake the macaroni and cheese in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

11. Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Equipment Needed:

- Large saucepan

- Whisk

- Baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)

- Small mixing bowl