Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2

Add 4 cups of water and the salt to a large pot.  Bring to a medium over medium high heat.  Stir in the pasta and cook the pasta to al dente and then drain.

Step 3

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium high heat.  Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

Step 4

Slowly whisk the milk into the roux whisking constantly.  Continue to cook (whisking constantly) until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 5

Remove from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese 1/2 cup at a time and stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.

Step 6

Once the cheese is melted, stir in the cooked pasta.

Step 7

Pour the pasta into a baking dish or a cast iron pan.

Step 8

Bake uncovered for 10-12 minutes until the edges of the pasta begin to brown.

Step 9

Remove from the oven.  Let the Mac and cheese cool for 10-15 minutes.  Then it’s ready to serve and enjoy!