Classic Baked Macaroni And Cheese

Ingredients

2 cups milk

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 1/2 cups shredded hoop cheese, divided

1/2 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni, cooked

Preparation

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Servings: 6 to 8

Heat oven to 400 F. Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place milk in a microwavable container and heat for 1 1/2 minutes before setting aside.

Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.  

Gradually add the warm milk and cook, whisking constantly, for 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened.

Add salt, black pepper and 1 1/2 cups cheese. Whisk until smooth. Fold in pasta. Spoon mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.