Classic Two-Cheese Macaroni

I love macaroni and cheese. Of the homemade variety. Like this one I made last December. Yes, it really has been since the beginning of December since I've made Macaroni and Cheese. Grumpy just doesn't like my all sharp cheddar mac & cheese dish - but I totally love it (so do my kids and everyone else I know!). Grumpy grew up on the boxed stuff. I just cannot eat it.

When he wants me to buy mac and cheese in a box for him, he want's the Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original. I just have one question. What on earth is wrong with my Grumpy when it comes to Mac & Cheese!!?! Sigh.

So, because I wanted mac & cheese, and because while browsing through my Best of Cooking Light cookbook I saw a recipe that actually called for Velveeta, I decided to try this recipe. It didn't call for the bread crumbs (or crushed cracker topping like mom always did) and I was a little worried I wouldn't be happy with it. But, it turned out great even without my breaded topping.

Classic Two-Cheese Macaroni
The Best of Cooking Light, page 123

¼ cup flour
2-½ cups 1% milk
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese, divided
6 ounces light processed cheese (such as Velveeta Light), cubed
6 cups hot cooked elbow macaroni (about 3 cups uncooked)
¼ teaspoon salt
Cooking Spray

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Lightly spoon flour into a dry m easuring cup, level with a knife. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat; add flour. Gradually add milk, stirring with a whisk until blended. Cook until thick (about 8 minutes), stirring frequently. Stir in ⅔ cup cheddar cheese and processed cheese, and cook 3 minutes or until cheese melt, stirring frequently. Remove from heat, stir in macaroni and salt.

Spoon into a 2 quart casserole dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with ⅓ cup cheddar cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for 25 minutes or until bubbly. Yield: 9 servings (serving size: ⅔ cup)

Calories: 260
Fat: 7.5 grams
Fiber: 1.3 grams
WW Points: 6