Swedish Christmas Macaroni and Cheese

I used to think Grammie made this on Christmas Eve just so that we kids would have something other than the Swedish food to eat. But then, Ikea also sells it with Swedish meatballs, so I have no idea of the origin.

Ingredients
1 (8-oz.) package elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 (8-oz.) block sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Instructions
Prepare pasta according to package directions. Keep warm
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth Cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes
Gradually whisk in milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until thickened
Remove from heat
Stir in salt, black and red pepper, 1 cup shredded cheese, and cooked pasta
Spoon pasta mixture into a lightly greased 2-qt. baking dish; top with remaining 1 cup cheese
Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving

Advanced tip: Use a variety of cheese from goat to gorgonzola (just a little) to Swiss, etc.  to deepen the flavor

baked-mac-and-cheese