20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

INGREDIENTS

1 lb

small pasta shells, cooked according to package directions, drained, and set aside

1/2 cup

unsalted butter

1/2 cup

all-purpose flour

1 tsp

kosher salt, or to taste

1 tsp

dry mustard powder

1 tsp

onion powder

1/2 tsp

garlic powder

1/2 tsp

pepper, or to taste

cayenne pepper, optional and to taste

4 cups

2% or whole milk

1 lb

extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, grated by hand