Macaroni and Cheese

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. 2

   Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just tender, about 8 minutes. Rinse with cold water and drain thoroughly.

3. 3

   In the same pot over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour, mustard, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth, then gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

4. 4

   Add the cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and fold in the drained macaroni until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Mix together the panko and paprika and scatter evenly over the surface.

5. 5

   Bake until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.