Nothing says comfort like Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese, a timeless Classic Macaroni and Cheese that wraps tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a golden breadcrumb crown. This creamy mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Simple to make yet irresistibly delicious, this cheesy macaroni bake is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s make this Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese recipe and savor pure comfort!
Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
- Ultimate Comfort: Creamy cheese sauce makes this comforting mac casserole a hug on a plate.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients for a quick cheesy macaroni bake.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults in this creamy mac and cheese.
- Customizable: Add veggies or protein to this comforting mac casserole.
- Make-Ahead: Perfect for busy nights or gatherings with this cheesy macaroni bake.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy mac and cheese (serves 4–6):
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- ¼ cup (55g) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp dry mustard (optional)
- ¼ cup (30g) breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 2-quart baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Macaroni: Elbow shape holds sauce perfectly in Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tang; freshly shredded for smooth cheesy macaroni bake.
- Milk: Whole milk ensures rich, creamy mac and cheese; avoid low-fat for best texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Optional for a crunchy top on this comforting mac casserole.
- Dry Mustard: Boosts cheese flavor subtly in this creamy mac and cheese.
Directions for Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Let’s make this Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese—a perfect cheesy macaroni bake!
Cook the Macaroni
In a large pot of salted boiling water, I cook 8 oz elbow macaroni until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions to avoid mushiness. I drain and set aside for this creamy mac and cheese.
Create the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, I melt ¼ cup butter until foamy. I whisk in ¼ cup flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux, ensuring no raw flour taste for this comforting mac casserole.
Make the Cheese Sauce
I gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk, stirring until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. On low heat, I add 2 cups shredded cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ¼ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp dry mustard (if using), stirring until silky for this cheesy macaroni bake.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
I fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated for a luscious creamy mac and cheese.
Assemble and Bake
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish. I pour the macaroni mixture into the dish, sprinkle with ¼ cup breadcrumbs if using, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden for this Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories: ~450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
- Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 18g protein, 20g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Try these twists on this cheesy macaroni bake:
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in broccoli, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Irresistible Peach Salad.
- Protein Add-In: Stir in bacon, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Marry Me Chicken Meatballs.
- Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Cucumber Shrimp Salad.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Easy Korean Cucumber Salad for a crisp side.
- Serve with Layla Cooks’ Mango Coconut Smoothie for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with Layla Cooks’ Pomegranate Margarita for a fun pairing.
Storage
I store this creamy mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For freezing, I cool, wrap tightly without breadcrumbs, and store for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge. I reheat at 325°F (165°C) with a splash of milk for fresh cheesy macaroni bake.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese in the baking dish or ramekins for a cozy comforting mac casserole.
- Garnish: Sprinkle parsley or extra Parmesan for vibrant creamy mac and cheese.
- Pairing: Enjoy with Layla Cooks’ Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte or a green salad.
- Portion Size: 1–1.5 cups per person for a hearty meal.
- Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I use different cheese?
Yes, try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique creamy mac and cheese.
Do I have to bake it?
No, enjoy it stovetop, but baking adds a golden top to this cheesy macaroni bake.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
Add milk gradually and stir cheese on low heat for smooth Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.
Can I add veggies or meat?
Yes, broccoli or bacon make great additions to this comforting mac casserole.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely, skip optional spices for a mild, cheesy macaroni bake kids love.
More Side Dish Recipes
- Honey Roasted Butternut Squash
- Roasted Carrots Recipe
- Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
- Broccoli Risotto Recipe
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese is a heartwarming dish that brings everyone together. This creamy mac and cheese is easy to make and endlessly comforting. Whip up this cheesy macaroni bake recipe, share with loved ones, and enjoy a timeless classic!
Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g elbow macaroni
- 2 cups 200g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups 720ml whole milk
- ¼ cup 55g unsalted butter
- ¼ cup 30g all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika optional
- ½ tsp dry mustard optional
- ¼ cup 30g breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
Cook the Macaroni
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, I cook 8 oz elbow macaroni until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions to avoid mushiness. I drain and set aside for this creamy mac and cheese.
Create the Roux
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, I melt ¼ cup butter until foamy. I whisk in ¼ cup flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux, ensuring no raw flour taste for this comforting mac casserole.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- I gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk, stirring until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. On low heat, I add 2 cups shredded cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ¼ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp dry mustard (if using), stirring until silky for this cheesy macaroni bake.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- I fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated for a luscious creamy mac and cheese.
Assemble and Bake
- I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish. I pour the macaroni mixture into the dish, sprinkle with ¼ cup breadcrumbs if using, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden for this Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese.
Notes
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