Absolutely The Best Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients for Absolutely The Best Baked Mac And Cheese

• Small Elbow Macaroni
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• All Purpose Flour
• Dry Mustard
• Ground Red Pepper
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Fat Free Half And Half
• Light Cheddar Cheese
• Buttered Bread Crumb

How to Make Absolutely The Best Baked Mac And Cheese

1. Cook 1 pound cavatappi pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter.
5. Whisk in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour until a smooth paste forms, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
7. Gradually whisk in 4 cups whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and simmers.
8. Reduce heat to low.
9. Add 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
10. Add the cooked macaroni and stir gently to coat evenly.
11. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
12. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Top with 1/2 cup bread crumbs.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.