Ingredients: Gather 8 ounces of elbow macaroni or any pasta shape of your choice, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 3 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and optional breadcrumbs for topping.
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Baking Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Topping: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese for a crunchy topping.
Baking: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving: Serve the baked mac and cheese hot as a comforting and satisfying meal on its own, or as a side dish with your favorite protein. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!