2 c. elbow macaroni
1 pkg. (8 oz.) sharp shredded cheese
2 1/2 c. milk
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. flour
1 tbsp. dry mustard
Tabasco sauce (several drops, to taste)
1/2 c. buttered bread crumbs

Optional Ingredients:
1 (6 oz.) can tuna, drained Or
1 c. broccoli,
Or mushrooms
Or leftover vegetables

1. Cook macaroni and set aside.

2. In medium size saucepan melt butter. Blend in flour, mustard and Tabasco. Stir in milk, constantly, until sauce starts to thicken slightly. Add 3/4 of the package of cheese, until melted, stirring occasionally.

3. Combine sauce and macaroni in a 2 quart casserole, that has been sprayed with Pam. Add 1 of the other "optional" ingredients. Cover casserole with the remaining cheese and the bread crumbs. Bake 25 minutes at 375 degrees.

This serves 4-6, depending on the rest of the menu. It's great with just a good salad. If cooking for only 2-3 people, divide into 2 smaller casseroles and freeze one. Then bake smaller casserole for only 20 minutes.