Everyday Macaroni and Cheese

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and a spoon full of salt (the salt helps season the noodles). Cook until the pasta is al dente (cook time depends on the noodle you chose but use the package instructions for al dente). When done drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

When the pasta is done, prepare the cheese sauce (using the same pot you boiled the pasta in). Melt the butter in the pot over medium heat then whisk in the flour. Slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk, whisking the entire time until it becomes thicker and all lumps are gone (about 3-4 minutes). Turn the heat to low and start mixing in the cheese, 1 handful at a time. I use a wooden spoon to mix in the cheese. Once all of the cheese has been added stir in the salt, pepper, ground mustard and nutmeg. Stir and heat until all the cheese is melted. Taste the sauce and add more seasonings as desired.

Dump the cooked pasta into the large pot of cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly. Serve immediately.