if I had to take one recipe with me to a deserted island, this is it. this is my death row last meal, this is the recipe by which I judge all others.
3 cups 2% or whole milk
1/2 cup salted butter (or unsalted + 1 tsp salt)
1/2 cup AP flour
1 pound elbow pasta (something with ridges, like Barilla)
2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar
optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or panko
optional add ins: shredded chicken, bacon, steamed broccoli, chopped bell pepper, frozen/thawed/drained spinach, artichoke hearts…
Cook the pasta according to package directions; rinse and drain.
Heat the milk in a medium saucepan until warm, but not bubbling. Remove from heat.
In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour until smooth. Remove from heat. Slowly pour in the warm milk, about 1/3 at a time, until it is fully combined. Put the pot back on medium heat and whisk for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and is silky. The sauce will go back and forth between watery and thick and you’ll think you did it wrong, but you didn’t.
Slowly combine the sauce with the cheese and any desired add-ins. Once smooth, stir in the pasta.
You can serve/eat as is, or top with breadcrumbs/panko and bake at 400º for 10-15 minutes.