If you’re ready for the ultimate cozy comfort food, this Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is about to become your favorite dish to make and share. Imagine ultra-creamy, cheese-laden macaroni, crowned with a golden, crispy topping—each bite transports you back to childhood dinners and potluck gatherings. With its dreamy blend of gooey cheddar, buttery sauce, and nostalgic flavor, this classic recipe is pure happiness in a casserole dish. Whether you serve it for Sunday suppers, holiday feasts, or a simple weeknight “treat yourself” moment, it’s a melt-in-your-mouth crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a few kitchen staples, but every ingredient plays an important role in building the flavors and luscious texture in this recipe. Simple, familiar basics come together to make something truly irresistible.
- Elbow Macaroni (12 ounces): The classic pasta shape hugs the cheesy sauce in every bite and holds up beautifully to baking.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): For that rich, creamy base and the beginnings of your perfect roux.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): This thickens your sauce and gives structure to the cheese mixture.
- Whole Milk, Warm (3 cups): Warm milk ensures the sauce stays smooth and comes together quickly.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Shredded (2 cups): For that signature tangy, gooey cheese pull that everyone craves.
- Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded (1 cup): This adds a lovely melt and stretch to your cheese sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance out the cheese and pasta flavors—taste as you go!
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and subtle warmth to the sauce.
- Ground Mustard, Optional (1/4 teaspoon): For a vintage touch and an extra pop of flavor—highly recommended!
- Parmesan Cheese, Grated (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top for an irresistible savory edge and beautiful browning.
- Breadcrumbs, Optional (1/2 cup): For that classic golden crunch—if you prefer creaminess, you can leave these out.
How to Make Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Ingredients Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your mac and cheese is. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a touch of butter or nonstick spray—this makes serving and cleanup extra easy. While your oven preheats, cook the macaroni according to package instructions, just until al dente. Once it’s ready, drain and set it aside, but don’t rinse—the starch helps your sauce stick to every noodle.
Step 2: Create a Luscious Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it sizzles gently. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth, golden roux, letting it cook for about 1–2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Now, gradually add your warmed milk, whisking constantly to ensure a silky, lump-free sauce. Continue to cook and stir for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. The anticipation at this stage is half the fun!
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Seasonings
Lower the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and optional mustard. Keep stirring until all cheese is fully melted and you have a glossy, velvety cheese sauce. Taste and adjust salt or mustard if you like a bit more punch—after all, the best Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is the one that fits your family’s taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the drained macaroni straight into the pot with your luscious cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece is beautifully coated—watch that sauce cling to each curve and crevice! This is when you’ll know you’ve got something truly special on your hands.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Spoon the cheesy macaroni into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with the grated Parmesan cheese, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs if you love a crunchy, golden top. It’s these little finishing touches that transform macaroni and cheese into the best Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe you’ve ever tried.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbling and the topping is deeply golden. For an extra-crunchy finish, you can broil it for an additional 1–2 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. Let the bubbly masterpiece rest for about 5 minutes before serving so the sauce settles and each piece slices neatly.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish even more inviting, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and gentle freshness. A tiny dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce gives it an eye-catching finish and an extra hint of flavor.
Side Dishes
A classic like the Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe shines alongside simple sides: think crisp green salads, roasted broccoli, or sautéed greens for balance. If you’re serving it as a main course, crusty bread for mopping up melty cheese is always a hit. As a side, it elevates any holiday ham, roast chicken, or barbecue spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, spoon individual servings into ramekins before baking for a personalized, restaurant-style touch. Top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for guests who like a little extra flair. For picnics, bake your mac and cheese in muffin tins—they become adorable handheld bites that travel perfectly!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to airtight containers. The Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making for ultra-comforting, fuss-free lunches and snacks.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly, perfect for meal prepping. Wrap individual portions or the whole casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the creamiest results, reheat your mac and cheese gently. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar offers traditional flavor, mixing in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a little smoked Gouda can bring new depth and deliciousness to your Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.
Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs on top?
The breadcrumbs deliver that delicious crunch, but if you prefer a softer, creamier top, feel free to skip them—or try crushed crackers or even panko for a different texture.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch for the roux. Gluten-free breadcrumbs or a cheesy topping work well too.
Why do I need to warm the milk?
Warming the milk before adding it to your roux helps prevent lumps and ensures a smoother, silkier sauce for the Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.
Can I assemble this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can completely assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then bake as directed (adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed).
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about scooping into a bubbling, golden pan of Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving the warmest kind of comfort food. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making—and sharing—this dish. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a classic at your own table!
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Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this classic Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warm)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta: Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Make cheese sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually whisk in warm milk until thickened. Add cheeses, salt, pepper, and mustard.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce until coated. Pour into baking dish.
- Add topping and bake: Sprinkle Parmesan and breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a crispy topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Experiment with cheese blends like Gruyère for varied flavors.
- Omit breadcrumbs for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
