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Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Ditch the box and make homemade comfort food for your family with this easy recipe from cooking instructor Gail Churinetz!

Baked Macaroni & Cheese

1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup flour
1 teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
3 cups milk
¼ lb. white American cheese
¼ lb. Swiss cheese
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated cheese
1/3 cup pankos (Japanese bread crumbs)
1 lb. good quality Penne or Shell macaroni, cooked al dente

In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter, flour, mustard powder and black pepper until bubbling and lightly brown. Slowly whisk in 3 cups of milk, American and cheddar cheeses. Cook on medium low heat until boiling; add Swiss and grated cheese, combine until cheese has melted.

In a large baking pan add cooked macaroni and ¾ of cheese mixture. Stir until well combined. Pour remaining cheese sauce over macaroni; top with pankos. Bake at 375 for 30-45 minutes, or until lightly browned and crispy on top.

For more tips from Gail check out her blog:
www.foodsinthefastlane.com