Few dishes are as comforting as a classic, creamy, baked mac and cheese. This Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, cheesy sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, holidays, or any time you crave something warm and satisfying. Made with simple ingredients like cheddar and mozzarella cheese, evaporated milk, and a hint of garlic salt, this dish has everything you need for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: it’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of bubbly. Baked in the oven to perfection, the cheese forms a golden crust on top while staying creamy and gooey underneath. The addition of evaporated milk makes the sauce extra rich, and the hint of paprika on top adds a subtle depth of flavor. This Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is a straightforward, timeless recipe that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients for Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic mac and cheese:
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni – The traditional pasta for mac and cheese, which holds the cheese sauce well.
- 4 Tbsp salted butter – Adds richness and creaminess.
- 2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk – Thickens the sauce for a creamier texture.
- 1/3 cup milk of choice – Helps achieve the right sauce consistency.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder to hold the sauce together.
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt – Adds a hint of flavor and complements the cheese.
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Cheddar is the classic choice for a sharp, tangy flavor.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded – Provides extra creaminess and a great melt.
- 1 tsp paprika – Adds a bit of color and a mild smoky flavor.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Breadcrumb Topping – Add a breadcrumb topping for a crispy crust.
- Bacon Bits – Sprinkle bacon bits between the layers for added smokiness.
- Hot Sauce or Mustard Powder – Add a dash to the sauce for a slight kick and flavor depth.
Instructions for Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Macaroni – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add Butter to Pasta – Stir the butter into the hot macaroni until it melts, coating the pasta in buttery goodness. This step helps the cheese stick to the pasta better and adds richness.
- Prepare the Milk Mixture – In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until smooth and fully combined. This mixture will become the creamy base of the dish.
- Combine the Cheeses – In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This blend of cheeses ensures a creamy, flavorful sauce with a gooey texture.
- Layer the Ingredients – Begin by layering 1/3 of the macaroni in the prepared baking pan. Then sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the macaroni. Repeat these layers twice more, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Add the Milk Mixture – Pour the milk mixture evenly over the layered macaroni and cheese. It will seep through the layers, making everything creamy and rich.
- Top with Paprika – Sprinkle the paprika over the top for a touch of color and flavor.
- Bake – Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This baking time allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to blend.
- Serve and Enjoy – Once baked, let the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides!
Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese will give you the creamiest results.
- Cook the Macaroni Al Dente – Cooking the pasta until al dente (slightly firm) prevents it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Let the Dish Rest After Baking – Allowing it to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the sauce set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Crowd-Pleasing and Kid-Friendly
This Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Its creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors make it a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners.
Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
Using basic ingredients like cheese, milk, butter, and pasta, this recipe is easy to make with pantry staples. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss meal.
Versatile and Customizable
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra flair. This recipe is versatile and adapts well to different flavors, so feel free to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions for Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese
Pairing Ideas
Mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and main dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Green Salad – A fresh green salad balances out the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for added texture and nutrients.
- Grilled Chicken or Sausage – Add a protein like grilled chicken, sausage, or ham to make this a full meal.
Perfect for Family Dinners and Gatherings
This mac and cheese is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches and keeps well, so it’s great for feeding a crowd. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to distribute the heat evenly. For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Add a little milk if the mac and cheese has dried out.
Freezing Instructions
This mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Nutritional Breakdown
One serving of Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese (approximately 1/8 of the recipe) contains:
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 15g
Making It Lighter
For a lighter version of this mac and cheese, try these substitutions:
- Use Low-Fat Cheese – Substitute some or all of the cheese with a reduced-fat version.
- Swap for Whole Grain Pasta – Whole grain or chickpea pasta adds fiber.
- Reduce Butter – Cut the butter in half, and add a bit more milk to keep it creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Colby Jack for different flavors. You can also mix in a small amount of Parmesan for added depth.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend if making a roux. The recipe should turn out similarly, though check the pasta as gluten-free options may require different cooking times.
How Do I Get a Crispy Topping?
For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking. Bake uncovered until golden brown.
Printable Recipe Card
Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 Tbsp salted butter
- 2 cans evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cook macaroni until al dente; drain and stir in butter.
- Whisk evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt.
- Layer 1/3 macaroni and cheese in pan; repeat twice.
- Pour milk mixture over layers; sprinkle paprika.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Enjoy!