Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

1 shallot (optional)

1/4 tsp freshly ground nutmeg

1/8 tsp freshly grated pepper

1/2 tsp salt

2 cups milk

2 cups elbow macaroni

3 TB butter

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite)

3 TB flour

1/2 cup panko or dried bread crumbs

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Method

1. Peel and mince shallot. Grate the nutmeg and pepper and mix with the salt. Shred the cheese. Warm the milk in the microwave.

2. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions. When done, reserve 1/2 cup of water and drain.

3. Meanwhile, melt butter of medium heat. (Optional: Add minced shallot and saute until it is translucent.)

4. Add the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly add the milk, then raise the heat to bring it to a boil. Whisk continuously until the sauce thickens. Add the reserved pasta water and stir for 1 minute more.

5. Add the salt, nutmeg, and pepper, and stir. Add the cheese and stir until it is melted. Add the pasta and mix well.

6. Serve hot with panko sprinkled on each serving.

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