11.05.2010

Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Who doesn't like good 'ole Mac & Cheese? It is the comfort food of all comfort foods. It is amazing and delicious and yummy and mmmmmmm..... I think I want some right now.


16 oz. Macaroni Noodles
4 T. Butter
4 T. Four
3 C. Milk
3 C. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Panko Bread Crumbs
Salt & Pepper
Cayenne?

Pre-heat oven to 400*

Cook the Macaroni noodles according to package instructions except cook for 1 minute less than the least amount of time suggested, adding salt to the water.

While you are waiting on the noodles - make the sauce. Melt the butter in a sauce pan, add in the flour and a dash of pepper and a few dashes of salt (and if you are feeling spicy, a dash of cayenne) whisk for a minute. Add in the milk, slowly, while continuing to whisk. Bring to a boil, stirring the whole time. add in 1 cup of the cheese and stir until melted.

When the noodles are cooked, drain and return to the stock pot. Poor cheese sauce over cooked noodles and pour into a 9x13 baking dish. Cover with the remaining cheese. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the Panko break crumbs over the top, return to the oven but this time under the broiler for only 1 -2 minutes or until the Panko is a beautiful golden brown.

Serve.