Mama's Classic Banana Pudding with Meringue

In a large bowl, mix together sugar, flour, salt, and stir until combined.

Whisk in milk, egg yolks, whole eggs until smooth.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the milk mixture and reduce heat to medium-low.

Whisk constantly until thickened, coating the back of a spoon nicely, and beginning to bubble (around 20 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla.

Let custard cool to room temperature (about 1 hour) while it continues to thicken.

Peel and slice bananas.

Line the bottom and sides of 2 (9x13-inch) broiler-safe casserole dishes with vanilla wafers. Arrange banana slices over wafers.

Pour cooled custard over bananas and wafers, smoothing the top.

In a large clean bowl, beat egg whites, cream of tartar, and remaining 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla using an electric mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form (around 5 minutes).

Spoon meringue over custard, covering it completely.

Set oven rack about 4 inches from broiler; turn broiler to high. Quickly broil meringues until browned (1-2 minutes). Keep a close eye on them.

Remove dishes from the oven, let meringue cool slightly (about 15 minutes), and serve.