old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese recipe

I have always been a fan of old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese. There’s something comforting about the creamy cheese sauce and the al dente pasta that just makes me feel at home. My family loves this dish, and it’s always a hit when we have it for dinner.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so easy to make. You can customize it to your taste by adding different types of cheese or even some ham or bacon for extra flavor. My kids love helping me stir the macaroni into the cheese sauce, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.

I also appreciate that this recipe is relatively healthy compared to some other comfort foods. With whole wheat pasta and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover pasta or cheese you might have on hand.

This recipe has been passed down through generations of my family, and I’m so glad I can share it with you today. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday gathering. Just be sure to adjust the amount of cheese according to your family’s taste preferences.

The key to making this recipe work is to use high-quality ingredients and not overcook the pasta or cheese sauce.

Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

4.9 from 766 votes

This classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe features a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Macaroni

1 lb elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
4 cups whole milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
5Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light brown color.
7Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
8Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
9Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
10Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
12Mix well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated.
13Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
14In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
16Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
17Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.
18This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
19Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
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 Macaroni and Cheese Works

I always keep a batch of old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese in my freezer for those busy nights when I need a quick meal solution.

It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, and I love that my family can enjoy a comforting homemade meal even on those chaotic weeknights.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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

I recommend using a high-quality, whole wheat macaroni for this recipe. The slightly firmer texture will hold up well to the creamy cheese sauce.

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

Yes, you can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese according to your family’s taste preferences. Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can also try using Parmesan, Gruyère, or even some shredded mozzarella for added creaminess.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

The key is not to overcook the pasta or cheese sauce. Cook the macaroni until it’s still slightly firm in the center, then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe can be made ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. If you need to store leftovers, be sure to refrigerate them promptly and reheat them gently before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you avoid adding any meat products like ham or bacon.

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