Saturday, May 17, 2008

Macaroni and Cheese


Sorry about the picture; I didn't know if this was going to turn out so I didn't take a picture before it was served. I kind of created this recipe based on a couple of different ones: one recipe that I found on AllRecipes.com and one that I found on MarthaStewart.com (although I don't know if it's THE Martha Stewart recipe). This is pretty tasty!

4 T. butter, divided
3 slices white bread, torn into 1/4" pieces
2 c. uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 c. diced onion
2 T. flour
2 c. milk
1 t. salt
1/8 t. coarsely ground pepper
1/8 t. ground nutmeg
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
2 c. cheddar cheese, grated
1/4 c. shredded Parmesan

Melt 2 T. butter; toss with torn bread and set aside. Boil macaroni according to package directions, minus about 2 minutes. Drain and pour into a coated 1 1/2 qt. casserole dish; set aside.

Melt remaining 2 T. butter in a medium saucepan; add onions and saute until soft and translucent. Add the flour and stir to coat onions. Add the milk, salt, pepper, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Stirring constantly, simmer until milk thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add cheddar, stirring until cheese melts.

Pour cheese mixture over macaroni and stir to combine. Sprinkle with Parmesan and top with torn bread. Bake at 350* until bread is golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Happy Mother's Day!















So this really doesn't have a recipe -- it's just strawberries dipped in chocolate and, well, "arranged". It was fun to do but a tad bit tedious. Let's just say -- I wouldn't do it for just anyone -- only those I love very much. :) Thanks Moms -- for all you do.