Classic Baked Mac & Cheese

Ingredients 

8 oz. Elbow Macaroni

6 tbsp. butter

1/4 C. flour 

1 C. low-fat milk

1 bay leaf

2 slices white bread

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

2 C. shredded white cheddar

Directions

1) Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside. Meanwhile melt 4 tbsp. butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 5 minutes mixing frequently to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, add the bay leaf and cayenne pepper and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes continue to stir until sauce thickens. Meanwhile toast and crumble the bread and set aside. 

2) Remove the sauce from the heat and toss with the pasta and cheese. Transfer to a greased 9 x 9 in. oven-proof dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top. Bake for about 20 minutes or until pasta is bubbling and golden brown. 

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 30 minutes

Serves: 4