Southern Favorite

I really truly believe that I should have grown up in the South! I love all Southern Foods and with that said, it is probably because they use a lot of butter in their cooking! I do believe that the well known Food Network Star Paula Deen and I would be kindred spirits if we got to hang out for an afternoon. I love her cooking and I love that she makes it a point to use real butter. Besides the South's home-cooked food, who can resist a Southern Accent. I Love it!!!
I thought I would share my Home made Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Don't waste your money on the Mac and Cheese that comes in a box because this recipe is out of this world! I also like eating leftovers the day after because the flavors have a little more time to blend together. Plus, my kids love it! My little boy requests this recipe more than the Boxed Mac and Cheese at the store. I add ham or hotdogs to make it a main dish rather than for just a side dish. Enjoy!

Ashlee's Southern Mac n' Cheese

1 2/3 c. dry small elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
2 T. cornstarch
1 teas. salt
1/2 teas. dry mustard
1/4 teas. black pepper
1 can (12 fl. oz) evaporated milk
1 c. water
2 T. butter or margarine
2 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Preheat Oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 2 quart casserole dish. Combine cornstarch, salt, mustard and pepper in a medium saucepan. Stir in evaporated milk, water and butter. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 c. cheese until melted. Add macaroni; mix well. Pour into prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and light brown.
Note: To transform Mac n' cheese from a simple side dish to a savory one-dish meal, add 1 c. chopped ham or hot dogs, after milk mixture comes to a boil.

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Ashlee, The Culinary Queen