Posted by Ellen Abney

This is an easy and tasty low-fat version of mac-n-cheese.

8 oz. elbow macaroni
2 C. skim milk
2 T. unbleached flour
1/4 tsp. ground white pepper
2 tsp. dry mustard
2 C. non-fat or reduced-fat
Cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Cook the macaroni al dente according to package directions. Drain, rinse and drain again. Set aside. Place 1/2 cup of milk and all of the flour, pepper and mustard in a container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake until smooth and set aside. Pour the remaining 1 1/2 cups of milk into a 2-quart pot, and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Add the flour mixture and cook, still stirring, for about 1 minute, or until thickened. Reduce the heat to low; add 1 1/2 cups of the cheese and stir until the cheese melts. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cooked macaroni. Coat a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and spread the macaroni mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese over the top and bake at 350º for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges. Remove the dish from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Makes 6 servings.