Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Good Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese: A Classic Comfort Food Favorite
When it comes to timeless comfort dishes, few things satisfy like a bowl of warm, creamy, and cheesy homemade mac and cheese. This beloved recipe has been passed down through generations, offering a rich, velvety sauce and a crispy topping that make it hard to resist. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the ultimate old-school mac and cheese that’s both delicious and simple to whip up.
Ingredients for Classic Mac and Cheese Perfection
The key to amazing mac and cheese lies in two essential elements: a smooth, flavorful cheese sauce and a crunchy, golden topping. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni (or other small pasta) | 8 oz (2 cups) |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tbsp |
| Whole milk (or half-and-half) | 3 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) | 4 cups (divided) |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Garlic powder (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
For the Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Breadcrumbs (panko or plain) | 1 cup |
| Melted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente.
- Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1–2 minutes while whisking.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Cook the sauce for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat and stir in 3 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar, mixing until smooth and melted.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Mix until every piece of pasta is well coated and creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- This mixture will provide a crisp, savory topping once baked.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the mac and cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
- Let the mac and cheese sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
- Serve warm and, if you’d like, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
