Southern classics like this just never get old. While every family has its take on particular recipes, one of my favorite recipes is this Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese from Southern Living. I put my own spin on it by using red rind hoop cheese, but it’s great with a sharp cheddar, too.

Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Total time: 40 minutes

Serves 6 to 8

 Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2½ cups shredded hoop cheese
• ½ (16-oz.) package elbow macaroni, cooked

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• Microwave milk on high for 1½ minutes.
• Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth.
• Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in warm milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until thickened.
• Whisk in salt, black pepper and 1½ cups shredded cheese until smooth; stir in pasta.
• Spoon pasta mixture into a lightly greased 2-qt. baking dish; top with remaining cheese.
• Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Notes

If you can’t find hoop cheese, a sharp cheddar will work great.

This recipe originally appeared on SouthernBite.com. For more great recipes, visit the website or check out The Southern Bite Cookbook.