METHOD

STEP 1. To cook the pasta

COOK the macaroni in a large saucepan of boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes;

DRAIN well and SET aside.

STEP 2.  To make the cheese sauce

MELT the butter over a medium heat in a saucepan slightly larger than that used for the macaroni;

ADD the flour and STIR, cooking for a few minutes;

Gradually WHISK in the milk, a little at a time;

COOK for 10-15 minutes to a thickened and smooth sauce.

REMOVE the sauce from the hob;

ADD 175g (6oz) of the cheese;

STIR until the cheese is well combined and melted.

STEP 3. To put everything together

ADD the macaroni to the sauce and mix well;

TRANSFER to an ovenproof dish.

SPRINKLE over the remaining cheddar and the parmesan.

STEP 4. To cook and serve 

PREHEAT the grill to hot.

PLACE the dish under the hot grill;

COOK until the cheese is browned and bubbling;

SERVE straight away.