Quick & Easy Stovetop Mac & Cheese

A Simple & Delicious serving of homemade
Mac & Cheese topped with crispy onions and parsley.

Ingredients:

1 pound (4 cups) Rotini, elbow, small shell or bow tie pasta

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of butter

3 tablespoons flour

3 cups whole or 2% milk

3 cups large grated extra sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup parmesan, asiago or romano cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Garnishes:

crispy fried onions

chopped crisp bacon

snipped parsley or cilantro leaves

Method:

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Melt the butter in the same pot, over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for a few minutes or until the mixture begins to bubble.

Slowly whisk in the milk, making certain to dissolve any lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheeses and stir until melted and smooth. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika.

Add the cooked pasta and stir until all of the noodles are coated and reheated.

Spoon servings onto a plate or bowl. If desired, garnish with crispy onions, chopped bacon and/or snipped parsley. Makes 6 servings.

Notes: I made this for my husband and I, so I had four servings leftover. I greased a 9 inch square baking dish with butter and transfered the leftovers to the greased pan. I added three tablespoons of milk and topped the dish with extra grated cheese. I will cover with foil and bake at 350* for 15 minutes. I will uncover and continue to cook for another 10 minutes.