Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2

Cook the macaroni in salted water per the package directions until al dente. Drain well, pour into a mixing bowl and set aside.

Step 3

Mix the shredded cheese together. Set aside.

Step 4

In a medium-size heavy bottomed saucepan melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat.

Step 5

To the melted butter add the flour, salt, Dijon and black pepper. Mix until the flour has been absorbed by the butter stirring constantly.

Step 6

Increase the temperature to medium high and gradually whisk in the milk. Whisk constantly to prevent clumping. Bring to a boil then immediately lower the heat to low. Simmer for 3-5 minutes gently bubbling stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7

Turn off the heat. Add the cream cheese to the sauce. Stir until melted.

Step 8

Remove from the heat, add 3 cups shredded cheese mix. Stir until melted. Pour the sauce over the macaroni. Mix until evenly coated.

Step 9

Pour 1/2 into the baking dish. Top with 1 cup shredded cheese. Repeat with macaroni then top with the final 1 cup of shredded cheese. Dot the top with 2 Tbsp butter.

Step 10

Place into the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden and  the edges are bubbly.

Step 11

Serve immediately.