Get ready to experience the most irresistible, creamy, and nostalgic mac and cheese recipe that will transport you straight back to grandma's kitchen! This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe - this is the ultimate comfort food that promises to make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine a perfectly golden, bubbling dish of cheesy goodness that's so rich and satisfying, it'll become your new go-to comfort meal for every occasion.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 3 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the mac and cheese later.
- In a large pot, bring a salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Continue to whisk for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, creating a roux.
- Gradually pour in the 3 cups of milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be creamy and smooth.
- Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- When the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and then return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until all the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- If desired, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese!
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Cheese: Use freshly grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan for the most intense flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness.
- Master the Roux: When making the cheese sauce, take your time whisking the butter and flour. A smooth roux is the secret to a creamy, lump-free sauce.
- Prevent Dry Mac and Cheese: If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to maintain that luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Optional Crispy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top before baking for a delightful crispy crust.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Cook macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven and you want to avoid mushy pasta.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 668kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
