Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 cups grated cheddar cheese ((shred it yourself for best melting!))
• 1 pound elbow macaroni (you can also use campanelle, cavatappi, or shells)

Steps

1. 1

   Place the topping ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.

2. 2

   Preheat oven to 400° F.

3. 3

   Cook pasta in salted water* for about 3 minutes less than package directions call for, until al dente, reserving half a cup of the pasta water.

4. 4

   In a large pot melt the butter and then add the flour, whisking continuously over low-medium heat for 2-3 minutes to make a roux.

5. 5

   Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a boil.

6. 6

   Reduce heat and simmer, whisking occasionally, 3 to 4 minutes, or until sauce is gently bubbling and starting to thicken.

7. 7

   Add reserved pasta water and cheddar cheese and whisk until melted.

8. 8

   Stir in the pasta.

9. 9

   Transfer to a greased 9"x13" baking dish.**

10. 10

    Sprinkle topping on macaroni and cheese.

11. 11

    Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until top is golden and bubbling.