Entertaining: Adopting Moms

Kids' Mac 'n' Cheese
To inspire your children to eat their veggies, sprinkle fresh corn and tomatoes on top of this dish. To make it even more fun, sprinkle with cheese popcorn.

. 8 ounces dried cavatappi, penne, or elbow macaroni (2 cups)
. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
. 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
. 1-2/3 cups whole milk, heated
. 1 cup shredded American cheese (4 ounces)
. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
. Fresh corn kernels and diced tomato (optional)
. Cheese popcorn (optional)

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; set aside.

Meanwhile, prepare cheese sauce. In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and pepper. Cook and stir for 3 minutes. Add milk in steady stream. Cook and stir over medium heat 3 minutes more or till slightly thickened and bubbly. Add cheeses, stirring till melted. Stir in cooked pasta. Transfer pasta mixture to 2-quart casserole.

Bake, uncovered, in 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or till bubbly and heated through. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Top with corn and tomato or popcorn. Makes 6 servings.