Julie's Famous Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups grated cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, or a combination)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
3. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until combined.
5. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the mustard powder, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
7. Add the grated cheese and stir until melted and combined.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
9. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
11. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
12. Serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish for hundreds of years.
• The first known recipe for macaroni and cheese was published in the United States in 1769.
• The dish is now popular around the world, with variations from country to country.