Classic Mac and Cheese

Recipe by: Leslie Brenner

If you're ever craving the cheesy, creamy goodness of this quintessential American comfort food, try my version. There's nothing tricky about it, but I think you'll agree it's crazy-good. If you like, you can make it ahead (in the morning or even the night before), stopping after you stir in the macaroni. Cover with plastic film and store in the fridge till you're ready to bake. Top with the bread crumb mixture and dot with butter at the last minute and pop in the oven.

Serves 6.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni

• 1/2 stick butter, plus another tablespoon or so for buttering the baking dish and dotting on top of the bread crumbs

• 2/3 cup finely chopped onion (about half a smallish onion)

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 9 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese (a tad less than 3 cups)

• 6 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan (divided)

• Freshly ground white pepper

• 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco or other pepper sauce

• Salt t…