Nanny’s Creamy Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it is al dente (according to package instructions for al dente). When done, drain it and set aside.

Meanwhile, melt 6 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the butter is melted add the flour and whisk until bubbly, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic and continue cooking for a minute until fragrant. Slowly add the milk and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer a few minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and add the Dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add the cheese a handful at a time and continue stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Stir in the cooked pasta. Transfer the macaroni to a 9 x 13 inch dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray.

In a small bowl combine your breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni.

Bake at 375 F for about 35 minutes or until bubbly and top is browned.

Cook’s Note: Don’t let the Frank’s Hot Sauce or the Dijon mustard scare you. They give the cheese sauce a nice flavor that is not spicy.

Enjoy!