Not Your Average Macaroni and Cheese

submitted by Sharee Liebing

package elbow macaroni
½ tsp. pepper
½ cup butter
3 ½ cups milk
1 tsp. salt
½ cup flour
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
½ sweet onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
optional: chopped bacon or ham cubes

Cook macaroni according to directions on package.Sauté bell pepper and onion, set aside.Cook and stir butter, salt, pepper, and milk over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Boil for one minute, slowly adding in flour with whisk. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, bell pepper, and onion. Strain macaroni and put in a casserole dish. Pour sauce over macaroni and mix together. Sprinkle more grated cheese on the top. (I also like to sprinkle on some paprika for looks) Bake uncovered for about 30 min at 375 degrees.