This Old Fashioned Mac And Cheese Recipe delivers a taste of childhood nostalgia. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this classic dish is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. This recipe uses real cheese and simple ingredients for an unforgettable mac and cheese experience.
The Best Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
This old fashioned baked mac and cheese is a staple at holiday dinners and potlucks. It’s the ultimate comfort food side dish, complementing everything from roasted turkey and ham to mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. While there are countless mac and cheese recipes, this one stands out for its creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly tender macaroni. The secret to the best homemade mac and cheese lies in generous amounts of milk, butter, and, of course, cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This baked mac and cheese is pure comfort in a dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll enjoy making, eating, and sharing. Perfect for a cozy Sunday supper.
- Budget-Friendly: Macaroni and cheese is a classic budget-friendly meal. This recipe relies on pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with mostly pantry staples and plenty of cheese, this recipe is easy to follow and requires no complicated techniques.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
- Macaroni Noodles: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the dish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for creating the roux.
- Milk: Whole milk provides the creamiest texture.
- Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot or your favorite hot sauce adds a subtle kick.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Shredding your own cheese from a block yields the best melting and flavor. Use mild, sharp, or a blend of cheddar cheeses.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Rice or chickpea pasta work well in this recipe.
- Dairy Allergies: While this recipe relies heavily on dairy, you can try substituting whole milk with oat milk for a potentially dairy-free option (results may vary). Vegan cheese hasn’t been tested in this recipe.
- Hot Sauce: Customize the heat level with your preferred hot sauce.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or your personal favorites.
- Crunchy Topping: Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
How to Make Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
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Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and toss with a tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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Make the Roux: Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until light golden brown.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly until thickened.
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Season and Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and hot sauce. Stir in 4 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
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Combine and Bake: Turn off heat and stir in cooked macaroni. Pour into a baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can hinder melting. Shredding your own ensures a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Master the Roux: A roux is essential for a thick and velvety cheese sauce.
- Cook Macaroni Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Butter the Macaroni: Tossing the drained macaroni with butter prevents sticking and clumping.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the mac and cheese.
Serving and Storage
Serve this old fashioned mac and cheese as a side dish or a main course. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, holiday dinners, or a simple weeknight meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for longer storage. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk for extra moisture.
