Description
Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. This classic dish features tender pasta coated in a smooth homemade cheese sauce with a crispy, irresistible top.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 5–6 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and ground mustard if using.
- Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly coated with cheese sauce.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and paprika if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Shred cheese from a block for the smoothest melt.
- Add bacon, ham, or extra cheese blends for variation.
- Top with crushed crackers or panko for a crunchy finish.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking—add extra time if baking from cold.
- Store leftovers in fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, classic side dish