This Mac and cheese is a great base, then add toppings or stir throughs to customise your dish. Or simply enjoy this classic bowl of comfort food by itself.

Ingredients:

• 350 grams macaroni (you can use other pasta but macaroni is the classic)
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons of plain flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups cheese (can use just tasty cheese, or a combination of cheeses such as parmesan, gruyere or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method: Cook the pasta according to the instructions, then drain. Meanwhile, on a low to medium heat, melt the butter in a medium sized saucepan. Add the flour, cook it stirring continuously for a minute. Pour half the milk slowly but consistently into the butter mix while whisking/stirring to avoid lumps. Then add the remaining milk and stir to combine. Bring just to the boil then reduce heat and simmer for a couple of minutes. Add the cheese and stir until melted and combined. Add the drained pasta to the pan and stir until coated. Season with salt and pepper and add your toppings or stir throughs.

Toppings: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme or sage. Fried breadcrumbs and garlic.

Stir throughs: A tin of plain or chilli tuna. Cooked bacon bits or chorizo. Fried mushrooms. Shredded chicken. Steamed veggies such as peas, broccoli, spinach or corn.