A timeless comfort dish, Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese brings back memories of home-cooked goodness. With its rich, creamy texture and deliciously cheesy flavor, this classic recipe is a must-have for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a warm and hearty meal. Made with simple ingredients, this traditional mac and cheese is baked to perfection with a golden, crispy crust that adds the perfect crunch to every bite. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute until it forms a smooth roux.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder for an extra depth of flavor. Stir well.
- Combine with Pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix until the pasta is fully coated.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy, golden crust. You can also add a little extra cheese on top for an even cheesier experience.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness with your favorite side dishes.
This Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe is everything you love about homemade comfort food. Its rich, velvety cheese sauce and crispy topping make it the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just satisfying a craving, this dish will always hit the spot. Enjoy every spoonful of this classic, heartwarming mac and cheese!