Mac and Cheese—it’s a dish that needs no introduction. It’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, making it a favorite comfort food for all ages. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving something indulgent, Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is always a winning choice. The best part? It’s super simple to make from scratch!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this classic dish at home. Get ready to enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of a homemade mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What Makes This Mac and Cheese So Special?
The beauty of Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese lies in its simplicity. Unlike the processed versions, homemade mac and cheese brings together the perfect balance of smooth, velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta. By starting with just a few fresh ingredients, you’re able to create a dish that’s incredibly rich and flavorful.
Whether baked for a crispy topping or served fresh from the stovetop, this recipe is sure to remind you of the cozy, homey meals we all love. So, let’s dive into the essential ingredients and steps to make this classic recipe your new favorite!
Essential Ingredients for the Best Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your mac and cheese from scratch:
- Elbow Macaroni – 2 cups (or use any pasta shape you prefer)
- Butter – 4 tbsp (unsalted)
- All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup (helps thicken the sauce)
- Whole milk – 2 cups (this makes the sauce creamy)
- Heavy cream – 1 cup (for extra richness)
- Cheddar cheese – 2 cups (shredded for easy melting)
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup (shredded, adds gooey texture)
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup (grated, adds a sharp, nutty flavor)
- Salt – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp (for seasoning)
- Garlic powder – 1/2 tsp (optional, for extra depth)
- Paprika – 1/2 tsp (for a subtle smokiness)
- Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup (for an optional crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the macaroni (or your chosen pasta) and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This helps thicken the sauce and gives it a nice texture. Make sure to whisk constantly to avoid any lumps.
Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while to keep the mixture smooth. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Now, reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a rich and smooth consistency. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir until it’s fully coated with the cheesy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a little more milk to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Optional – Bake for a Crispy Topping
While stovetop mac and cheese is delicious, baking it creates a wonderful golden crust on top. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer your mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, then sprinkle them evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese before baking.
Serving Your Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Once your mac and cheese is ready, it’s time to serve! The beauty of this dish is that it’s versatile, and you can enjoy it in many ways:
Classic Pairings
- Grilled Chicken or Chicken Tenders: A juicy piece of chicken complements the richness of mac and cheese perfectly.
- Crispy Bacon: Add some bacon crumbles for a smoky and savory bite.
- Steamed Veggies: Serve with a side of broccoli or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
Garnish Tips
For an extra touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, or a sprinkle of extra paprika for a pop of color. The cheese sauce is rich enough to stand on its own, but these additions can elevate the dish further!
Conclusion
Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is a simple, comforting meal that never disappoints. Its creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy topping (if baked) make it a dish that can be served on any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday gatherings.
Next time you’re craving something indulgent and delicious, make this homemade mac and cheese. It’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings and leave you coming back for more. Don’t forget to share your photos and thoughts with us! We love hearing how our recipes turn out in your kitchen.
And if you’re looking for more hearty, soul-warming recipes, be sure to explore the rest of our blog for other family-friendly dishes and comfort food favorites.