Smart Macaroni & Cheese

Let me just start out by saying that I do allow my kids to eat packaged Mac & Cheese. I personally as a mom, prefer to make this home made recipe at my home. It is really simple, healthy and yummy. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with Kraft or Velvetta, but you can definitely make a healthier dish with the same taste instead. This recipe is so filling with the whole wheat pasta. This recipe comes out pretty cheesy so we usually half the sauce ingredients, but it just depends on how you like it. Just have your kids try it and see if they love it too!

1 pkg (14.5 oz) Whole Wheat Elbows, we prefer the Ronzoni Smart Taste
3 T butter
3 T flour
2 1/2 cups milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
2 cup shredded cheese
1 cup frozen vegetable (peas, carrots, mixed)

Cook past according to directions, with four minutes left add frozen vegetables. In a medium saucepan melt butter. Stir in flour. Gradually stir in milk over medium heat, until sauce thickens. Stir in salt and pepper. Add cheese sauce into pasta and veggies.

If not serving right away, put in oven at 300 degrees for 30 minutes.

Makes 6 servingsr