Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Baked Macaroni & Cheese
Serves 6

1 pound box of medium shells
1 block of sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 block of Monterey jack cheese shredded
2 tbs butter
2 tbs flour
3 cups of whole milk
salt and pepper
hot sauce (optional)
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
2 tbs Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cook pasta al dente according to directions. Heat Saucepan on medium-low heat and make a rue with butter and flour. Add milk and heat until warm. Add cheese to pan. Stir while cheese is melting. Season with salt and pepper. Add hot sauce if desired. Pour cheese sauce into cooked pasta; stir until everything is coated. Pour macaroni and cheese in a lidded oven safe dish. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in separate bowl. Cover top of macaroni and cheese with breading. Bake for 20 minutes covered. Remove lid and raise heat to 425 degrees for 5-7 minutes. For extra crisp topping turn on broiler for 2 minutes watching very closely. Serve with vegetable.

Other Variation: Add cubed pieces of ham for extra protein and salt.

This can be a main course or a side dish.

Baked in Longaberger 2 Quart Oval Cassarole