Cheesy Macaroni and Cheese

This is one of our favorites here.  I think it's one of the first things I learned to cook from scratch.  It's also a great way to stretch the food budget.  It satisfies even the pickiest of eaters in my house.

Cheesy Macaroni and Cheese

1 stick of unsalted butter
1 tablespoon garlic minced
1/2 onion diced finely
1/4 cup flour
1/2 box of chicken stock
1/2 cup milk (if needed)
salt and pepper to taste
pinch of nutmeg
box of macaroni cooked and drained
1 block of Swiss cheese shredded
1 block of cheddar cheese shredded
small amount of grated parmesan cheese

Melt butter in a saucepan.  Add garlic and onion.  Sauté for only a few minutes.  Add flour and stir until incorporated.  I usually cook the flour a little bit to remove the "paste" flavor of it.   After about a minute or so, slowly add the chicken stock while whisking at the same time.  This is where children come in handy.  You can whisk while they pour.  Cook a about a minute, keep whisking while it thickens.  If needed add a little milk to loosen it up.  Add the salt, pepper and nutmeg if desired.  Slowly add the cheese and stir until it is melted.  Save a little out to spread on top before placing in the oven.

Mix the macaroni and cheese sauce mixture together.  Place in a 13 by 9 pan.  Place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.  Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes.

You can pretty much use any cheese you want.  It also doubles very nicely!  Make one pan for your family and another for a friend.  ENJOY!