There’s something timeless and comforting about a bowl of Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings back memories of childhood, family dinners, and cozy nights spent at home. For many, mac and cheese is more than just food—it’s a tradition. This recipe is inspired by the comforting, creamy version I grew up with, one that my mom made for us whenever we needed a bit of extra love and warmth. It’s simple, rich, and full of flavor—no frills, just pure cheesy goodness.
Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a family gathering, this old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe is perfect. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough to feel like a special treat. Plus, it’s an absolute hit with kids and adults alike!
What is Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese?
Old-fashioned mac and cheese is a classic American dish that typically features elbow macaroni smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce made from a combination of milk, butter, and cheese, often baked for a rich, golden finish. This recipe stays true to that comfort food foundation, offering a rich and velvety sauce that coats each bite of macaroni. Unlike the boxed versions, which often rely on powdered cheese, this recipe uses real cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser that’ll quickly become a family favorite.
This recipe strikes a balance between ease and flavor. It’s neither too fussy nor too simple, with just enough ingredients to achieve a creamy, flavorful, and downright satisfying dish. You can always add extra cheese for an extra cheesy experience, or throw in some crispy breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why:
- Kid-Friendly: This is the kind of dish kids adore, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. If you’re looking to get some vegetables into picky eaters, consider sneaking in a handful of spinach or peas—kids love the way the cheese coats everything!
- Weeknight-Friendly: The dish is quick to prepare, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples. You can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it a great go-to for busy nights when you need something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
- Great for Leftovers: One of the best parts about mac and cheese is that it’s even better the next day. The flavors develop and deepen as it sits in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a next-day lunch.
- Comforting: If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and nostalgic, this recipe will hit the spot every time. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
How to Make Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese :
1. Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions, usually about 8 minutes for al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water—it comes in handy if your sauce needs a little loosening up.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, begin making the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste (this is your roux). Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese
Once your sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded cheese, a handful at a time. Stir constantly until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices (garlic powder, mustard powder, or paprika) to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the macaroni is coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Bake (Optional)
For an extra indulgent touch, you can bake your mac and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
What to Serve With
Old-fashioned mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add some color and a burst of flavor to your meal.
- Grilled Meats: Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or pork for a complete dinner.
Top Tips for Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
- Extra Cheese: Feel free to play around with different types of cheese! A combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives it the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to add some Gouda, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a twist.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, swap out some of the milk for heavy cream.
- Bread Crumb Topping: If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese before baking.
Storing and Reheating
This mac and cheese keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make mac and cheese without baking it?
Yes! You can skip the baking step and enjoy it right after combining the pasta with the cheese sauce. It will be creamy and delicious even without the crispy topping.
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. If you’re not baking it, just keep it covered in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like—shells, penne, or fusilli will work just as well as elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free elbow macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux.
Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Mac and cheese can be frozen! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe is a real winner. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of comforting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or making it for a special occasion, this dish never fails to satisfy. It’s simple, flavorful, and a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Best of all, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights spent at home, surrounded by loved ones.
Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese Recipe
Kochutensilien
- Large pot (for boiling the pasta)
- Saucepan – For making the cheese sauce.
- Baking dish (optional, for baking the mac and cheese)
Zutaten
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon mustard powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon paprika optional
- ½ cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
Anleitungen
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking to prevent lumps, and continue to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Bake (Optional): If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.