Macaroni and Cheese

This is the richest and creamiest mac-n-cheese I've ever eaten. It is an indulgent treat for when the "box stuff" just won't do or when you simply want to "wow" your friends and family.



Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups milk
2 (10 ounce) packages sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
1 (10 ounce) package extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni, cooked

Directions:
In a big skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.  Whisk the flour in gradually until the mixture is smooth.  Cook and whisk continually for 2 minutes.  Add in salt, pepper, cayenne, and garlic; stir to combine.  Gradually whisk in half-and-half and milk.  Cook and whisk continually for 8-10 minutes or until mixture is thickened.  Add in half of the sharp cheddar cheese; stir.  Add in all of the extra-sharp cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.  Remove from heat.  Mix together the cooked macaroni and the cheese mixture. Transfer to a greased 13x9 inch casserole dish.  Sprinkle with the remaining sharp cheddar cheese.  Bake in a 350° oven for 20 minutes.