Old Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipe

To make old-fashioned mac and cheese, gather these ingredients: 16 ounces elbow macaroni, 1 stick unsalted butter, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 4 cups whole milk, and 5 cups sharp cheddar cheese. First, cook the macaroni until al dente in salted boiling water. Then, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, and gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in the cheese until smooth. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. For a crispy top, sprinkle extra cheese and broil for a few minutes. More tips await you.

Key Takeaways

• Classic mac and cheese features creamy cheese sauce made primarily with sharp cheddar for rich flavor and nostalgia.
• Simple cooking process involves boiling macaroni, making a roux, and combining with cheese sauce.
• Baking at 375°F for 25-30 minutes creates a bubbly, golden crust; optional broiling enhances crispiness.
• Versatile dish can be customized with different cheese blends and served as a main or side.
• Ideal for family gatherings, holidays, and potlucks, and can be prepared ahead for convenience.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

You’re going to love this old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe because it brings together classic comfort and ease of preparation. This dish offers a creamy cheese sauce that satisfies a wide range of palates, making it ideal for holiday celebrations or family meals.

It transports you back to childhood memories with every bite. Preparation is straightforward, as it only requires simple ingredients and can be made in a short time. You can even prepare it ahead and reheat it later. Nutritional values are also a plus, as this dish is not only delicious but provides a good amount of protein and calcium.

This recipe is highly versatile; you can customize it with various cheeses or add breadcrumbs for crunch. It’s budget-friendly too, using mostly pantry staples, making it perfect for large gatherings without breaking the bank. Enjoy this comforting classic!

Recipe

Old Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, cheesy bowl of macaroni and cheese. This classic dish combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta for a satisfying meal that evokes nostalgia with every bite.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or the star of your dinner table, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With a rich, velvety sauce and a golden, bubbly top, this mac and cheese will become a staple in your kitchen.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a delicious homemade mac and cheese from scratch. The key to a perfect dish lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique used to create a smooth cheese sauce. This dish is also budget-friendly, making it an ideal option for feeding a crowd.

With a blend of sharp cheddar cheese and whole milk, this dish is both creamy and flavorful. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps needed to create this classic comfort food.

Ingredients:
– 16 ounces elbow macaroni
– 1 stick unsalted butter
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups whole milk
– 5 cups sharp cheddar cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside. To prevent sticking, you can toss the pasta with a tablespoon of butter.
2. Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Continue whisking for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light golden in color, forming a roux.
3. Add Milk: Slowly whisk in 4 cups of whole milk to the roux, making sure to avoid lumps. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Cheese: Lower the heat and add in 5 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Taste the cheese sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Assemble: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring that all the macaroni is well-coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle additional cheese on top of the macaroni and cheese mixture for a cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Extra Tips: To ensure the best results, use freshly grated cheese for improved melting and flavor.

Consider reserving a bit of the pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the consistency of your cheese sauce if it becomes too thick. If you want to add a crunchy topping, layer fresh breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

Enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

As you savor each bite of this classic mac and cheese, it’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. You can customize it by mixing different cheeses like cheddar and gouda for richer flavors. Consider adding crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for texture.

Remember these tips: shred cheese from blocks for better melting, cook your pasta al dente, and master the roux for a creamy sauce. Additionally, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, making it convenient for busy weeknights or large family gatherings.

You can serve this versatile dish as a main course or a side. Lastly, it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or grilled meats, making it a great choice for potlucks and holiday meals. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free pasta! While traditional pasta offers familiarity, gluten-free options provide flexibility without sacrificing flavor. Just ensure you follow cooking instructions to maintain the perfect al dente texture. Enjoy!

How Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Vegetarian?

To make your mac and cheese vegetarian, use olive oil instead of butter, choose vegetarian-friendly cheeses, and substitute plant-based milk. You can also add steamed veggies or nutritional yeast for extra flavor and nutrition.

What Is the Best Cheese for Mac and Cheese?

Choosing the right cheese is like picking the perfect partner; sharp cheddar brings boldness, while Gruyère offers warmth. Combine them for a rich, comforting embrace that melts beautifully into your mac and cheese masterpiece.

How Can I Store Leftovers Effectively?

To store leftovers effectively, cool them quickly, use airtight containers, and label with dates. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months, portioning them for easy reheating whenever you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I Freeze Mac and Cheese for Later Use?

Sure, you can freeze mac and cheese! Just remember, it might get a bit mushy if not prepared correctly. Undercook the pasta, cool it down, and store it properly for the best results.