Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and delicious, it brings smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish never fails to please!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect because it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients. You probably have most of them in your pantry already! Plus, it’s a great meal for busy days or a fun weekend cooking project with family.
How to Make Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Directions:
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add Butter: Add in the butter and stir until the butter is melted. Set aside.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Layer Ingredients: Layer 1/3 of the macaroni in the baking pan, then 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture.
- Add Milk Mixture: Pour the milk mixture over the top. Sprinkle the paprika evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Serve your mac and cheese warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a side dish with chicken or veggies. Add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs on top for a nice touch!
How to Store Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
If you have any leftovers, let them cool then transfer to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave!
Tips to Make Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
- Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
- Feel free to mix in some cooked bacon or veggies like broccoli for extra flavor.
- For a crispier top, broil it for a few minutes after baking.
Variation
You can try using different types of cheese, like gouda or pepper jack, for a different taste. Adding breadcrumbs on top before baking can also give it a nice crunch!
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes! Gluten-free elbow macaroni works well in this recipe.
2. How can I make it spicier? Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a kick!
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare everything and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Pan
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
Dairy
- 2 cans (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
Cheese
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Step 2: Add in the butter and stir until the butter is melted. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Step 6: Layer 1/3 of the macaroni in the baking pan, then 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture.
- Step 7: Pour the milk mixture over the top. Sprinkle the paprika evenly on top.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.