Baked Mac and Cheese

I love baked mac and cheese, this is my go to recipe. In an attempt to be healthier when indulging in this cheesy goodness I try to fill the other half of my plate with veggies (steamed broccoli as pictured). I hope you like this one as much as I do!

Baked Mac and Cheese

(Jefferson style from FOODWISHES, Check out the video http://foodwishes.blogspot.com/2009/02/life-liberty-and-pursuit-of-cheesy.html)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F

1lb elbow macaroni (cooked according to box)

3-4 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (I prefer Cabot brand, but really pick your favorite cheese, It doesn't have to be cheddar)

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup flour

1/4 cup dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/8 teaspoon white pepper

1/4 teaspoon worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon salt

pinch of nutmeg

3 cups milk

1/2 cup panko/crushed ritz or other cracker

1 Tablespoon Melted butter

Melt 1/4 c butter in a saucepan over medium low heat and add flour, whisk together to create a light roux. Add thyme, cayenne & white pepper.

Add 1 cup of COLD milk. Whisk together. Add remaining 2 cups of milk.

Stir in your nutmeg and worcestershire. Simmer mixture on medium-low for about 8-10 minutes. This would be a good time to grate your cheese.

TURN OFF HEAT. Add cheese a 1/2 cup or so at a time (Saving 3/4cup for topping) and stir as it melts into your sauce.

Spread your cooked noodles in your casserole dish and top with your warm cheesy sauce. Spread throughout casserole dish coating your noodles.

Top with leftover cheese. Combine panko and 1T melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

Bake in the oven until bubbly and slightly browned (About 20 Min)

Happy Cooking!