The Best-Ever Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Place macaroni in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over macaroni; mix well. Sprinkle top with bread crumbs.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Interesting Facts

• Macaroni and cheese is an American dish that has been around since the early 1800s.
• Mac and cheese was a popular dish served on both sides of the American Civil War.
• The dish is often served with hot sauce, ketchup, or bacon bits.