Description
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting classic dish featuring al dente elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Parmesan. Baked to golden perfection with an optional buttery breadcrumb topping, this timeless recipe makes a perfect main course or side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Topping
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese later.
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux without browning.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream gradually, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Remove from heat and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Notes
- You can mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed onions for added flavor variation.
- For an extra cheesy dish, add additional shredded cheddar on top before baking.
- Make sure not to overcook the macaroni initially, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- The paprika adds a subtle smokiness but can be omitted if preferred.
