Baked Macaroni and Pimento Cheese

• elbow macaroni↗8 ounces
• butter↗3 tablespoons
• all-purpose flour↗1⁄4 cup
• skim milk↗2 cups
• salt↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• cayenne pepper↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• garlic powder↗1⁄8 teaspoon
• shredded 50% reduced-fat cheddar cheese8 ounces
• diced pimentos, drained1 jar

  4 ounce

• fine dry breadcrumb↗1⁄3 cup
• freshly grated parmesan cheese1⁄3 cup

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cook macaroni according to the package; drain.

2. 2

   Heat oven to 350 degrees.

3. 3

   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

4. 4

   Whisk in flour gradually until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.

5. 5

   Gradually, whisk in the milk, salt, cayenne pepper and garlic powder. Cook,.

6. 6

   while whisking frequently for 3-5 minutes or until thickened.

7. 7

   Add cheddar cheese and pimentos; cook until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

8. 8

   Remove from heat and stir in pasta.

9. 9

   In a baking dish with cooking spray (9-by-13 in.), spoon pasta mixture.

10. 10

    In a bowl, add parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Sprinkle over pasta mixture.

11. 11

    Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly!