Simple Baked Mac 'N' Cheese

Mac 'n' cheese is one of those comfort foods that just about everyone loves, and with good reason. As soon as I discovered this little gem it became an instant favourite and it's actually surprisingly versatile.

You will need:
350g elbow macaroni
50g butter
50g plain flour
700ml milk
250g vintage cheddar, grated (do not buy pre-grated cheese)
100g gouda, grated (do not buy pre-grated cheese)
½ tsp black pepper

Method:
1. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C.
2. Cook the pasta, in boiling salted water, for 2 minutes less than the time recommended on the packet, drain and set aside.
3. Melt the butter in a medium sized saucepan over a medium heat, slowly stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
4. Add in the milk, a little at a time, whilst stirring constantly this will help to prevent lumps. 5. Once all the milk is added allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it starts to thicken.
6. Once thickened take the sauce off the heat and stir in 200g of the cheddar, all the gouda and the black pepper.
7. Pour out into a large ovenproof dish, sprinkle over the remaining cheese and put into the oven to bake for 15 - 20 minutes until the cheese on top has melted and browned off.

Notes:
Grill some bacon until it's really crispy, break it up into small chunks and sprinkle it over the top just prior to serving for a real treat.