Fish Sticks with Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 12 Frozen Fish Sticks
• 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
• 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cup Whole Milk
• 2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper
• ¼ tsp Mustard Powder (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange fish sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake according to package directions, usually 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. While fish sticks bake, cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, then reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
7. Serve the hot macaroni and cheese alongside the crispy baked fish sticks.