Macaroni cheese

Ingredients

• 250g/9oz macaroni
• 40g/1½oz butter
• 40g/1½ plain flour
• 600ml/1pint 1½fl oz milk
• 250g/9oz grated cheddar
• 50g/2oz grated parmesan (or a similar vegetarian alternative)

Preparation method

1. Cook the macaroni in a large saucepan of boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes; drain well and set aside.
2. Melt the butter over a medium heat in a saucepan slightly larger than that used for the macaroni. Add the flour and stir to form a roux, cooking for a few minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time. Cook for 10-15 minutes to a thickened and smooth sauce.
4. Meanwhile, preheat the grill to hot.
5. Remove the sauce from the hob, add 175g/6oz of the cheese and stir until the cheese is well combined and melted.
6. Add the macaroni to the sauce and mix well. Transfer to a deep suitably-sized ovenproof dish.
7. Sprinkle over the remaining cheddar and the parmesan and place the dish under the hot grill. Cook until thecheese is browned and bubbling. Serve straightaway.