Grandma's Mac n Cheese

Little boys and grandpas ideas as to what makes a good Sunday dinner menu aren't necessarily the same, but fortunately grandmas have some experience and can please both of them. At least, I like to think I do, and everyone seemed to enjoy Sunday dinner, including Momma who's trying to eat dairy and gluten free. Would you enjoy the menu?

Green Salad, with cucumber slices and black olives on the side for the boys
Oven Fried Chicken Strips, with barbecue sauce on the side for dipping
Ultimate Three Cheese Mac n Cheese
Green Beans
Brownies and fresh fruit for dessert

This is really supposed to be a post highlighting the macaroni and cheese, which was a new recipe on the "to try" list. I really loved it, and so did two-year-old Clark. I guess we'll be having it again some time.


Grandma's Mac n Cheese

8 ounces macaroni (about 2 cups)
1/4 cup butter, divided
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup flour
3 cups milk, heated in microwave for a minute or two
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided
1/4 cup grated Jack cheese

Cook the macaroni just until al dente; drain and set aside. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a saucepan. Stir in bread crumbs and cook for a few minutes, then place in a small bowl and set aside. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter in the same pan, stir in the flour, then the hot milk and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup Gruyere cheese and the Jack cheese until melted. Toss with the macaroni and pour into a greased casserole. Top with the remaining cheese and bread crumbs. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. Let set for a few minutes before serving.

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