Macaroni Cheese with Pepperoni and Green Peppers

Preheat oven to 400º F / 200º C. Coat an 8 x 8-inch oven-proof baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions.

Meanwhile, heat 1 1/2 cups milk in a large heavy saucepan, set over medium-high heat until steaming but not boiling. In a small bowl, whisk remaining milk and flour until smooth; add to the hot milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce simmers and thickens, about 3 minutes. Remove milk from heat source and add the Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in the cream cheese.