Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese Recipe

If there’s any dish that instantly transports you back to cozy childhood kitchens, it’s Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese. This golden, creamy casserole captures the very essence of comfort food: tender pasta submerged in a velvety cheese sauce, bubbling away under a crisp breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, bringing a crowd-pleasing side to a potluck, or just treating yourself, this classic recipe is a hug on a plate—one that never fails to gather everyone at the table with anticipation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

No gimmicks or shortcuts here—just real, wholesome ingredients that let each flavor shine. Each item plays a special part in building that luscious texture and craveable depth in every bite. Let’s break down what makes this Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese so irresistible!

• 8 oz elbow macaroni: The traditional pasta shape that catches the cheesy sauce in every curve.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The anchor of our cheese sauce, delivering classic tang and gooey meltiness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty notes that round out the flavor profile.
• 3 cups whole milk: Brings creaminess and body—full fat makes a big difference in richness!
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Kick-starts the creamy roux and infuses the casserole with buttery flavor.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Key for thickening up that dreamy cheese sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and amplifies all the savory notes in the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth to enhance the cheese without overpowering it.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds subtle color and a hint of smokiness—fun for both taste and eyes!
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional): Perks up the cheese flavor, making it bright and bold.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping): For that iconic, golden crunch on top—highly recommended for textural magic!

How to Make Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—a generous handful of salt adds flavor right from the start. Drop in your elbow macaroni and cook it just until al dente, which means tender but with a bit of bite. Overcooking now can lead to mushy mac later, so keep an eye out! Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside while you move on to the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Create a Roux

Time to build a foundation of silkiness. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until just foamy. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes. You don’t want to brown the mixture—just cook off that raw flour taste to help develop a smooth, glossy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Gradually pour the whole milk into the roux, whisking all the while so no lumps form. Bring this to a gentle simmer; it will thicken after 5–7 minutes of stirring. Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and (if desired) paprika and dry mustard. Keep stirring until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes irresistibly silky and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and fold it all together until every noodle is drenched in creamy goodness. This step is pure magic—the moment when two humble elements unite and transform into Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese bliss!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly across the top for that signature crisp contrast. Pop it into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes so the flavors settle—then dig in!

How to Serve Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Want to make your Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese look as spectacular as it tastes? Shower the baked dish with a bit of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green, or dust with extra Parmesan for a savory finish. A little smoked paprika or even some thinly sliced scallions can also give your dish that restaurant-worthy look and an added flavor twist.

Side Dishes

This cozy casserole always pairs well with bright, fresh sides to balance out the cheesiness. Serve alongside crisp green salads, tangy coleslaw, or simply roasted veggies such as broccoli or asparagus. A bit of crusty bread is also perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce from your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

When you’re ready to serve, think beyond the big baking dish! Scoop portions into ramekins for individual servings at a party, or pile spoonfuls into buttery hollowed-out bread rolls. If you want to get a little playful, layer scoops with barbecue pulled pork or spicy hot sauce for a build-your-own mac and cheese bar—the possibilities are endless for presenting Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese in fun, unforgettable ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese holds up beautifully as leftovers. Place any cooled extras in an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so the second-day servings can taste even richer. Just be sure to reheat gently so the sauce stays creamy.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze your mac and cheese for later! Once baked and cooled, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. If you plan on freezing a whole batch, skip the breadcrumb topping and add it just before baking to preserve the crunch. For best results, enjoy within two months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

For creamy, just-made texture, reheat leftovers gently in a 325°F oven, covered with foil to lock in moisture. If you’re heating a single serving, a splash of milk in the microwave helps loosen the sauce nicely. Stir halfway through for even warming and avoid overheating, which can dry out the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of sharp cheddar?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives classic flavor, try mixing in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a little mozzarella for a unique, melty twist on Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

Baking isn’t strictly required—you can certainly enjoy it stovetop-style right after combining the pasta and cheese sauce. However, baking adds that golden top (especially with breadcrumbs), which many people think is the best part!

What’s the best way to get a super creamy cheese sauce?

To achieve luscious creaminess, stir the milk in gradually, keep the heat on low when adding cheese, and avoid overcooking. If you want it even richer, try adding a bit of cream cheese or an extra splash of milk as suggested in the notes.

Can I add vegetables or meat to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped broccoli, sautéed onions, or crumbled cooked bacon can be mixed right into the sauce for a heartier mac and cheese. It’s a delicious way to customize Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese without losing its charm.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Kids love it! The flavors are simple, cheesy, and familiar. If you’re serving little ones, you can go easy on the optional mustard and paprika, and they’ll still enjoy every creamy forkful of Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.

Final Thoughts

No matter the occasion, Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the kind of dish that turns any meal into a heartfelt gathering. Give it a try, and you’ll soon understand why this recipe remains a timeless favorite. Don’t be surprised if your friends and family ask for a second helping—or the recipe itself!

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