Easy Mac and Cheese

By Spar 

Ingredients

- 250g Macaroni

- 50g butter or margarine 

- 50g cake flour 

- 500ml warm milk

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 230g cheddar cheese 

- Fresh breadcrumbs

- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced into rounds

Method

Pre-heat oven to 200°C.

Cook macaroni according to packet instructions until just tender/al dente.

Meanwhile, prepare the basic white sauce by melting margarine in a separate pot, and stirring in flour into a smooth paste. 

Cook for 2 minutes over medium heat.

Gradually pour in warmed milk, using hand-whisk to stir continuously, until sauce thickens to a velvety smooth consistency. 

Remove from the stove as it comes to boil, and season with salt and pepper.

Tip macaroni and cooking water into a colander over the sink. 

Shake to remove all excess water.

Add drained pasta into a pot of sauce along with approximately 500ml of measured grated cheese. 

Transfer to lightly greased oven-dish.

Arrange tomato slices over the top, and sprinkle over a mixture of breadcrumbs and remaining cheese.

Bake in pre-heated oven for 15 minutes until topping is crisp and golden. 

Allow the dish 10 minutes standing time, for it to settle and firm up for easier serving.

Hints & Tips

Add fried and chopped bacon or macon with a finely chopped onion for a meaty flavour.