Danielle's Favorite Mac & Cheese

My granddaughter, Danielle and I sometimes have a "Grammy & Me "Day. We'll go on a shopping spree at the mall. She just loves to shop at Justice. We'll rev up with a thick shake at Johnny Rockets. Then, we'll stop for a mani/ pedi at the nail salon.

Finally, what better way to end a perfect day......... come home to enjoy her favorite meal......chicken fingers with mac and cheese.

The cheesier it is, the better!!


Danielle's Favorite Mac & Cheese

• 3 tbs flour
• 3 tbs melted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk
• 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cubed, room temperature, cream cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 lb of macaroni, cooked al dente
• 1/2 cup flavored bread crumbs, (4-C)
• Salt & pepper to taste

In a saucepan, over medium-high heat, melt butter and stir in flour, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Whisk in the 2 cups of milk. Simmer on low for about 5 minutes or until the mixture coats a spoon. Remove from heat and whisk in the cheddar cheese, cream cheese and the grated Parmesan until smooth. Add salt & pepper to taste. Lightly grease a large casserole dish. Add pasta and toss with cheese mixture. Top with bread crumbs and dot with butter or margarine. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until the bread crumbs are lightly browned.

** Danielle's favorite pasta in mac & cheese is Barilla's Cellentani.