Classic Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re yearning for a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners, this classic old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with creamy cheese and tender pasta, it’s a dish that resonates with nostalgia. This is not just another recipe; it’s the best mac and cheese recipe that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine and ensuring every piece is coated.
- Bake (optional): If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, if using, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve hot. Enjoy your classic mac and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Allergies: Contains dairy, gluten, and wheat.
Forget about boxed versions! This homemade mac and cheese recipe is made from scratch using simple ingredients that you likely have on hand. It’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish for any occasion.
With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, this mac and cheese stands out as a family favorite. You can even customize it by adding your favorite ingredients like crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables for an extra twist.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Classic Mac and Cheese
This classic mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce.
It’s a dish that resonates with memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners.
The piping hot bowl, with its golden and crispy top, invites everyone to dig in. Each bite reveals a harmony of textures, from the smooth cheese sauce to the delicate crunch of breadcrumbs topping.
Ideal for all ages, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its cheesy goodness.
Whether served as a main dish or a side, this comforting bowl of mac and cheese will quickly become a household favorite, disappearing in no time.
Ingredients that Bring it All Together
The foundation of this homemade mac and cheese recipe is simple yet flavorful.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both indulgent and nostalgic.
Elbow macaroni provides the perfect base, while a combination of butter, flour, and milk creates a rich sauce.
The star of the show, however, is the sharp cheddar cheese, which adds a robust flavor that complements the creamy texture beautifully.
For those looking to elevate the dish, optional ingredients like breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top before baking.
These add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor, making the dish even more appealing.
The Art of Cooking Pasta
Cooking the macaroni to the right level of tenderness is essential for a successful dish.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, the elbow macaroni should be cooked according to package instructions until al dente.
This ensures that the pasta holds its shape when combined with the cheese sauce and during baking.
After cooking, it’s important to drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the sauce.
This short pause allows you to focus entirely on creating a creamy cheese sauce that will coat each piece of macaroni perfectly.
Crafting the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Creating the cheese sauce is a crucial step that can make or break your mac and cheese experience.
Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in flour and cook briefly.
Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens, then remove it from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
This smooth cheese sauce is what gives your mac and cheese its signature creamy texture.
Don’t forget to add seasonings like salt, pepper, and, if desired, paprika for an extra kick.
Putting it All Together
Once your cheese sauce is ready, it’s time to combine it with the macaroni.
Make sure every piece of pasta is evenly coated in the velvety sauce, ensuring a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
This step is where the magic happens, as the combination of pasta and cheese sauce creates a delightful, comforting meal.
For those who enjoy a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top it with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake until golden brown.
This additional baking step enhances the texture, providing a crispy contrast to the creamy filling.
Serving Up Comfort
Once your mac and cheese is baked to a beautiful golden hue, it’s time to serve.
Let it cool for a few minutes before dishing it up into rustic ceramic bowls.
This not only adds a warm, homey touch but also keeps the dish hot while you gather around the table.
Pair your mac and cheese with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors.
As you enjoy this classic dish, reminisce about the moments it brings to life — family dinners, cozy nights in, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Classic Mac and Cheese
This classic mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. It’s baked to perfection for a golden top that adds a delightful texture.
Ideal for all ages, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its cheesy goodness. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and watch it disappear in no time.
FAQ:
Q: What makes an “old-fashioned” mac and cheese recipe different?
A: Old-fashioned recipes typically focus on simple, core ingredients: pasta, cheese (usually cheddar), milk, butter, and a basic roux (flour and butter). They often lack the “extras” like fancy cheeses or breadcrumb toppings found in modern variations.
Q: How can I get that perfect, creamy texture in my homemade mac and cheese?
A: The key is a well-made roux and slowly incorporating the milk to create a smooth, velvety cheese sauce. Make sure to cook the flour and butter mixture enough to remove the raw flour taste before adding the liquid.
Q: Can I bake my old-fashioned mac and cheese, or is it always stovetop?
A: While many old-fashioned recipes are finished on the stovetop, baking is a very common and traditional method. Baking adds a lovely golden crust and allows the flavors to meld even further. It often depends on the specific family recipe!
