Mom's Mac-n-Cheese

Straightforward and delicious! You may have all these ingredients on hand already. Leftover ham or smoked turkey is good mixed in. We like it straight from the stove. Note that if you're serving this straight from the stove, you can also add in a few more noodles to stretch it some.

Mom's Mac-n-Cheese

• 2 T. butter
• 1/4 c. flour
• 1 t. salt
• 1/2 t. dry mustard powder
• 1/4 t. pepper
• 2 1/2 c. milk
• 2 c. shredded cheese, divided
• 1/4 c. fresh bread crumbs, optional
• 8 oz. noodles, cooked al dente (cut pasta is best)

1. Melt butter in large saucepan. Stir in flour and cook, stirring, for about a minute.
2. Add milk gradually, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add remaining seasonings. Cook, stirring, until mixture comes to a low boil. Simmer, stirring, until mixture thickens. This whole step will take about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cheese a handful at a time over low heat, stirring to melt. If serving from the stovetop, use the full amount of cheese. If baking, use 2 cups.
4. If baking, pour into an 8x8-inch pan. Top with bread crumbs and remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake at 350 degrees until hot and bubbly and top is browned.

Serves 4-6