Mac'N'Cheese

This is another recipe that comes a-dime-a-dozen, but it is treasured in this house and worth sharing.  I think it originally came from a Betty Crocker book?  I had a copy written on a recipe card from my mother-in-law since my bridal shower, and it has been committed to memory for years.  When my kids will eat nothing else, they will eat this.  It takes less than 20 minutes start to finish.  You can change it up to keep it interesting, and the leftovers do well microwaved with a teaspoon of milk or baked until crispy on top.  I have made this meal AT LEAST once a week for the last 9 years.

Macaroni and Cheese

1/4 cup butter
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup flour
1 3/4 cups milk
8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 oz. elbow or small shell macaroni noodles

Prepare pasta as directed.
Over medium heat melt the butter.  Add the salt and pepper, and stir in the flour until smooth and bubbly.  Add the milk, increase heat to high, and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.  Add the cheese, reduce heat to medium and stir until melted and mixed.  Pour over pasta.  TA-DA (as my girls would say).

Some variations:

Substitute chopped onion and garlic for the salt and pepper, or try tomatoes, hot dogs or pepperonis.