Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese

Description: It's not a lowfat casserole, but it's so delicious you won't care. Add leftover ham for an even heartier meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb macaroni
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups 1% low-fat milk
• 1/2 lb low-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 lb sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumb
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cook macaroni (1/2 pound= 2 cups dry) until just al dente.
3. You can use elbows for a traditional look, but try scoobi-doo-- it works well in this recipe.
4. Drain pasta well.
5. While the mac is boiling, melt the 1/4-cup butter in a large pot.
6. Whisk in the flour.
7. Over med heat, whisk until smooth and bubbly (only about a minute).
8. Stir in milk, cream cheese, salt, pepper& mustard.
9. Keep cooking and stirring until sauce is thickened-- about three or four minutes.
10. Cut the block of cheddar into half-inch cubes.
11. Add drained macaroni and cubed cheddar& combine well.
12. Pour into a casserole sprayed with Pam.
13. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and sprinkle over top.
14. Dust with paprika if desired.
15. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until top is golden brown and casserole is heated through.