Comfort Food

Hi Everyone,

I am half way through Eating Heaven now. I am beginning to see that this novel is every bit about family as it is about food. I am at the part of the novel when Ellie begins reminiscing about the food she grew up with. In honor of her and Benny I thought I would post this recipe because to me it represents the epitome of comfort food.

Macaroni and Cheese with Bread Crumbs Topping

16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
8 ounces monterey jack cheese or mild cheddar cheese (shredded)
6 tablespoons butter (4 for recipe, approximately 2 for greasing pan)
2 cups whole milk
3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 lb elbow macaroni

-Preheat Oven to 350 degrees
-Shred the two cheeses into two different bowls.
-Prepare elbow macaroni as directed on box. Drain and set aside for a moment.
-Grease entire surface of your 9"x 13" baking pan generously with butter.
-Start preparation by covering the bottom of the dish with half of the cooked elbow macaroni.
-Cut 2 TBSP of butter into small pieces (like a pat of butter) and spread them over the macaroni evenly.
-Add a layer of half of the Cheddar Cheese, then half of the Monterey Jack or Mild Cheddar Cheese.
-Add the other half of the elbow macaroni, THEN 2 more TBSP of butter cut into small pieces and spread out evenly.
-Add the other half of both cheeses.
-Add the 2 Cups of milk.
-FINALLY -- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs lightly in a thin layer over top of the whole dish (you may use more or less than my recipe calls for).
-Put in oven at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes, or until lightly browned

ENJOY!

Boy that is a lot of butter and cheese! I guess that is why they call it comfort food. What I love most about this recipe is a quick and easy yet oh so delicious.