Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Creamette elbow macaroni according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes). Add cheese and seasonings: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated. Optional – Bake with topping: Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the mac and cheese hot. It can be enjoyed as a side dish or main course.