Macaroni and Cheese

I have two different recipes for you. One is supper quick, the other takes a bit more time since it is baked. I prefer the baked method myself, like most; my son likes the “fast food” version out of the box. Either way mac-n-cheese, is one of these dishes that is great plain or you can embellish it with different cheeses, jalapeños, bacon or other add ins to enhance the flavor.

Mom’s Mac-N-Cheese

1 8-10 oz package elbow macaroni
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup butter
1.4 cup all purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon of salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

Preheat oven 375
Cook macaroni as package label directs; drain
In a 1 1/2 quart shallow baking dish alternate macaroni and 1 1/2 cups cheese (2 layers) set aside.

Sauce

Melt butter in medium saucepan remove from heat blend in flour gradually stir in milk, then seasonings.  Bring to boil stirring and boil 1 minute.  Pour sauce over macaroni and cheese top with remaining cheese.
Bake 15 - 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned.

Joe’s Hot Mac-N-Cheese

Makes 4 servings

1 cup elbow macaroni
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 Tbsp seeded, diced jalapeño
2 tsp minced garlic
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
2 oz. sharp Cheddar, shredded (3/4 cup)
2 oz. American cheese, shredded (3/4 cup)
salt to taste

Cook macaroni in pot of boiling salted water according to package directions, drain.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan. Add jalapeno and garlic; cook until tender, about 3 minutes
Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.  Whisk in milk to incorporate, stir in Cheddar and American cheese
Cook sauce, stirring frequently until thick and cheese is melted.  Stir in cooked macaroni, season with salt.