Mac and cheese

Did anyone check out www.dinnerwithdad.com? He's asking for recipes so that he can start cooking for his family -- starting with the new school year, his goal is to not only make it home for dinner, but to cook it half the time. Here's a recipe I left -- a great favorite with Noogs and Babs, who are even beginning to eat it neatly.

Homemade Mac and Cheese -- takes no more time than making it from a box, and you already have all the stuff.

1 lb. noodles (we like the curly cavatappi)
1 med. bag frozen broccoli florets (optional, and you can also cut florets from two heads fresh broccoli)
3 tbsp. butter
3 tbsp. flour
1/2 tsp. dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups milk (we like whole)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar

Set a big pot of water to boil. If making broccoli, toss it in boiling water and let cook for about two minutes -- until slightly tender but not mushy. Remove broccoli with slotted spoon and place on a plate covered with paper towels. Set aside.

Put noodles in to boil. In large microwavable bowl, microwave butter for about thirty seconds. When melted, add flour, mustard, and salt and pepper and stir. Microwave for thirty more seconds. Stir in milk and microwave for about four minutes, stirring every minute or so, until nice and thickened and bubbly.

Mix shredded cheese into the sauce and let sit while the noodles finish cooking. Drain noodles and place in serving bowl. If serving broccoli, add that as well. Pour the cheese sauce over all, stir, and call the kids to the table.

Serves two adults and two toddlers and leaves leftovers, so I assume it will be plenty for two adults and two larger children.

Hope you enjoy! I know most kids love mac and cheese.