Extraordinary Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients for Extraordinary Macaroni And Cheese

• Small Shell Pasta
• 1/4 cup butter
• Onion
• All Purpose Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups milk
• Cheddar Cheese
• Tomatoes

How to Make Extraordinary Macaroni And Cheese

1. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
4. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in 3 cups milk, ensuring no lumps form.
6. Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, and their juice.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
8. Add 1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked).
9. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until pasta is tender and liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
10. Remove from heat.
11. Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or 1 cup fontina and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan for an Italian twist).
12. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
13. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.