Homemade Mac~N~Cheese

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Cups milk

• 2 Tablespoons butter

• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1/2 Teaspoon salt

• 1/4 Teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 (10-oz.) Block extra sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/2 (16-oz.) Package elbow macaroni, cooked

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INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 400°. Microwave milk at HIGH for 1 1/2 minutes. Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute.

• Gradually whisk in warm milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until thickened.

• Whisk in salt, black pepper, 1 cup shredded cheese, and, if desired, stir in pasta. Spoon pasta mixture into a lightly greased 2-qt. baking dish; top with remaining cheese, and panko crumbs (to your own liking).

• Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.