Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until well combined to create a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
4. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the macaroni to heat through.
8. Remove from heat and serve hot. You can garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or grated cheese if desired.

This stovetop mac and cheese is luxuriously creamy with a rich cheese sauce that coats every bite of pasta. It's the ultimate comfort food. Enjoy!