I made this recipe step-by-step for a family gathering. It was a big hit! It is thick and creamy. The second time I did it I added toasted breadcrumbs (I am new to cooking) and that was even better. By the third time I made it, I got adventurous. I'm from the South and my grandma sometimes used heavy whipping cream as a substitute for milk. I made 16 servings (32 oz. elbows) with 6 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. The consistency was much thicker, almost like a casserole, but it was even more popular with my family. We had plenty of leftovers.......which were excellent battered up and FRIED!!!!