Mac and Cheese:

• servings: 5 servings
• total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

½ lb uncooked elbow macaroni (, about 1 ½ cups)

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 1/2 cup milk (, any kind)

3/4 cup half and half

2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (*)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees and lightly grease a square baking dish.

Cook the macaroni to al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Blend in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.

Slowly add the milk and half and half, stirring constantly, and cook over medium-low heat for a few minutes until the mixture has thickened like the consistency of gravy. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheese, stirring just until melted.

Add the cooked macaroni noodles and toss to coat. Pour half or the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese over the top. Add remaining pasta and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted on top.

Serve with your favorite vegetable or a side salad.

Nutrition

• Calories: 559 kcal
• Total Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 98 mg
• Sodium: 693 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
• Total Sugars: 5 g
• Protein: 24 g