There’s something about old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese that just makes you feel at home. It’s warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—the ultimate comfort food that brings back childhood memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings. Whether it’s a side dish for a holiday feast or the star of a weeknight meal, macaroni and cheese is universally loved, and today, I’m excited to share with you my take on this classic dish.
If you’re as passionate about comfort food as I am, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe has a rich, creamy texture, a golden, bubbly top, and that nostalgic flavor that brings you back to simpler times. Trust me, once you try this version of old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese, you’ll keep coming back for more.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Taste of Nostalgia
This old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is everything you remember it to be: creamy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of baked goodness. The cheese sauce coats every single noodle, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s an indulgence, but one that you won’t regret! When baked, the cheese on top forms a golden crust, adding a little crunch to each bite. It’s truly a dish that hits all the right notes.
Versatile and Family-Friendly
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! You can enjoy this macaroni and cheese as a side dish with roasted chicken or barbecue ribs, or you can make it the main event, served alongside a simple salad or some garlic bread. The best part? Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of it. My family practically begs for it every other week!
What Does Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese Taste Like?
The beauty of baked macaroni and cheese is in its simplicity. The creamy cheese sauce is made from a combination of sharp cheddar and smooth, melty cheeses, resulting in a tangy, savory flavor that complements the neutral taste of the pasta. The baked crust on top adds a satisfying texture that contrasts the creamy interior. Every forkful is a combination of velvety sauce and crunchy cheese, with the pasta acting as the perfect vehicle to carry all that flavor.
Benefits of This Recipe
1. It’s Incredibly Simple to Make
One of the biggest advantages of this old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese recipe is that it’s easy to prepare. You don’t need fancy ingredients or cooking skills to pull it off, which is why it’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
2. It’s Affordable
You can make a large batch of this dish without breaking the bank. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples like pasta, butter, flour, and milk. Add some quality cheese, and you’re good to go!
3. Perfect for Leftovers
This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, but if you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck. Baked macaroni and cheese reheats beautifully, and some say it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (for a bit of color and mild spice)
- ¼ cup bread crumbs (optional for topping)
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Large pot for boiling the pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- Whisk (to ensure a smooth sauce)
- 9×13 baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for mixing
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
This macaroni and cheese recipe is flexible, so you can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Cheese: While sharp cheddar is a classic, you can use any type of cheese you like. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can be delicious alternatives.
- Milk: For a richer sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for some of the milk. If you’re looking to lighten it up, low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk can work.
- Add-ins: Want to make this a complete meal? Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed spinach, or diced tomatoes to the mix before baking. You could also throw in some cooked, diced chicken or ground beef for extra protein.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you time to prepare the other components of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. You don’t want the pasta to be too soft because it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. This will help thicken the cheese sauce. Continue whisking for about 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden color.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once all the milk is added, continue to cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Now comes the fun part! Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and mix well, ensuring every noodle is coated.
Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9×13 baking dish. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly on top. For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to set, making it easier to serve.
What to Serve with Macaroni and Cheese
While this baked macaroni and cheese is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to serve it as part of a larger meal. Some of my favorite pairings include:
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots provide a nice contrast to the richness of the macaroni.
- Simple Salad: A fresh, green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
- Grilled or Baked Protein: Whether it’s roasted chicken, pork chops, or barbecue ribs, this macaroni and cheese pairs well with almost any main course.
Tips for Making the Best Macaroni and Cheese
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture, grate your cheese fresh from a block.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta should be slightly undercooked before baking, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: While it’s optional, adding breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top gives the dish a delightful crunchy texture.
- Customize the Flavor: Want a smoky flavor? Add a pinch of smoked paprika. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes.
Storage Instructions
This baked macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
You can also freeze it for longer storage. Once cooled, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
2. Can I prepare this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as instructed.
3. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different shapes of pasta. Penne, rotini, or shells work just as well!
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy, delicious recipe for old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese that will have your family coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or
even as a side for holiday dinners. The creamy cheese sauce, crunchy baked top, and tender pasta combine to create a comforting and satisfying meal that never goes out of style.
Let’s Stay Connected!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on my Facebook groupe and don’t forget to leave a review below. You can also follow along on facebook page for more recipe inspiration!
For more macaroni and cheese recipes, check out this collection of Classic Mac and Cheese Recipes and Easy Mac and Cheese Variations from two of my favorite culinary websites.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Enjoy every cheesy bite!