Classic Macaroni and Cheese

 This is a guest post by Dennis Consorte.

Macaroni and cheese is a classic home-style dish and a favorite comfort food. Its rich, creamy flavor is enjoyed by children and adults alike. Everyone can appreciate the cheesy goodness, but these days, mac and cheese is often made from a box. Yes, it’s easy, cheap and convenient but every now and then you deserve a real homemade treat. This recipe for classic macaroni and cheese is doubly delicious and still affordable and easy to make. You will probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. The ingredients include 2 cups of elbow macaroni, cooked and drained, 3 Tbsp. of butter or margarine, 2 Tbsp. of all-purpose flour, ½ tsp. of salt, 1/8 tsp. of pepper, 2 cups of milk and of course, 2 cups (8 oz.) of shredded mild Cheddar Cheese, divided. You can also add ¼ cup of finely chopped onion, if you desire. This savory recipe mixes two southern favorites, macaroni and cheese, and casserole.
To begin preparing this dish, rich in calcium and vitamin A, melt your butter in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. If you choose, cook your onions in the butter for about 5 minutes or until tender. Next, stir in flour, salt and pepper. Gradually add milk and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mix has thickened. Remove this mix from heat and add 1-1/2 cups of cheese, stir until the cheese is melted. Combine your cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and pour this into a 1-1/2-quart casserole. Top your macaroni and cheese casserole with the remaining cheese. Bake your mac and cheese in preheated 350°F oven for about 30 minutes or until it is bubbly and the cheese is lightly browned. Now, after 45 minutes total, your delicious dish is done. This homemade macaroni and cheese is a meal you can be proud of that everyone will love. The dish serves six and is both kid friendly and vegetarian friendly. It makes a perfect lunch, dinner or even a side – it pairs very well with chicken.