old fashioned baked mac n cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best old fashioned baked mac n cheese recipe

I’ve been making this old fashioned baked mac n cheese recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in my household. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to hit the spot.

My kids love it, and I love that it’s so easy to make. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, like sharp cheddar and creamy bechamel sauce.

I also like to add some cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, like holidays or family gatherings.

It’s also great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s relatively healthy, considering it’s a macaroni dish.

The cheddar and bechamel sauce add some richness, but the pasta itself is a good source of complex carbohydrates. I also like to serve it with some steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance out the meal.

Overall, this old fashioned baked mac n cheese recipe is a tried-and-true favorite in our household, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as we do.

Old Fashioned Baked Mac N Cheese

4.7 from 887 votes

A classic comfort food dish featuring tender elbow macaroni in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Baked to perfection, this recipe serves 4 people.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Macaroni

2 cups elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden brown.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
10Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, ensuring the macaroni is well coated.
13Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
14In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
16Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
17Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Baked Mac N Cheese Works

This old fashioned baked mac n cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

You can even customize it with your favorite add-ins, like cooked meats or vegetables. This recipe has become a staple in my household because it’s easy to make and always satisfying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Baked Mac N Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works best with a medium-width pasta, such as elbow macaroni or cavatappi.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

You can experiment with different cheeses, but sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic combinations that work well.

Q: How do I prevent the mac n cheese from becoming too dry?

Make sure to use enough bechamel sauce and don’t overbake the casserole.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover mac n cheese?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through and crispy on top.

Similar Posts