Macaroni and Cheese

 

Shown here as a side with beef brisket

This is supposed to be a Panera Bread Copycat recipe.  I've never had Panera's Macaroni and Cheese, so I don't know, but this is certainly delicious! The white cheddar melts so smooth and creamy.  Even my husband, who does not like macaroni and cheese loved it!  I halved the recipe for just the two of us, but this is the original that serves 8.

Macaroni and Cheese

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup flour

1 cup milk

2 cups cream

2 cups shredded white cheddar

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. fresh ground pepper

1 tsp. dry mustard

1 lb. pasta of choice.  I used shells

Cook pasta to el dente in boiling, salted water.

Make the sauce by melting the butter in a large pot.  Stir in the flour and cook for several minutes.  Add the milk and cream.  Mix and stir and mix and stir until you have a nice, smooth, thickened sauce.  Turn down the heat and add the salt, pepper, and mustard.  Then add the grated cheese and continue to stir until the cheese in melted and well blended.  Add in the cooked pasta and mix until all the pasta is covered and creamy.  Taste and adjust seasonings.  I like to sprinkle with some Mrs. Dash. Serve warm.