Thursday Recipe - Hot Dog Casserole

This is a take on a dish my neighbor brought over years ago. Just don't do what my son did and use hot dogs that have been sitting out for two days. He's in the bathroom dealing with the consequences of that bad decision. He's three days shy of turning 18 so he's plenty old enough to know better.

Hot Dog Casserole

1/3 c. butter
1/3 c. flour
3 c. milk
2 c. shredded monterey jack cheese
1 4 oz. can chopped green chilies
salt and pepper to taste
12 oz. box macaroni, cooked and drained
12 oz package of hot dogs, sliced

Melt butter in a 2-quart saucepan. Stir in flour. Cook until bubbly. Slowly stir in milk. Continue to stir and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese and green chilies. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss with macaroni and hot dog slices. Pour into a 9x13 baking dish. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes until very hot and bubbly.

Serve with a salad and cookies for a fast easy dinner. You can make the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to three days before baking.