Here’s a Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe that’s rich, creamy, and full of comfort! This homemade version is made with a velvety cheese sauce and elbow macaroni, and it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
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1 lb elbow macaroni (about 4 cups dry)
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4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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3 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional, but adds great flavor)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for a little smoky flavor)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
For the Topping (optional):
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko, for crunch)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente (usually around 7-8 minutes).
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Drain the pasta and set aside. Make sure not to overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking when you mix it with the sauce.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
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Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir to combine and taste for seasoning.
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Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
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Add the drained cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the cheesy sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of garlic powder if desired.
4. Optional: Add the Topping:
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If you like a crispy topping, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle it over the top of the mac and cheese.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
5. Serve:
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Remove from the oven (if you baked it) and let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving.
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Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish!
Tips and Variations:
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Add-ins: You can customize your mac and cheese with extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, spinach, or even lobster for an elevated version.
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Different Cheeses: If you want a different flavor profile, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
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For a Creamier Texture: Add a bit more heavy cream for extra creaminess, or try cream cheese for a richer texture.
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Baking Option: If you don’t want a crispy topping, you can skip the baking step and just serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop.
Serving Size:
This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
Enjoy this Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese as a comforting meal or a side dish with your favorite main courses! It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness that will surely be a hit with everyone.