Boil water in a large pot. Add salt and macaroni. Cook until soft but still firm. Drain well and set aside. Do not overcook the pasta for best texture.

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add flour and stir quickly. Cook for one minute until it forms a smooth paste. This is your base for the sauce.

Pour milk little by little into the pan. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes thick and creamy. This step needs patience for smooth texture.

Add grated cheddar cheese into the sauce. Stir until melted completely. Add mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well. The sauce should be rich and creamy.

Add cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Mix gently until every piece is coated. Make sure the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce evenly.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if you like a golden crust.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes. The top should turn golden and slightly crispy. This adds extra flavor and texture.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm and creamy. It tastes best fresh from the oven.