Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Few dishes can rival the comforting appeal of a warm, creamy mac and cheese. This classic macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect blend of gooey cheese and tender macaroni, making it the ultimate choice for family dinners, holidays, and cozy nights at home. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this homemade baked mac and cheese will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese

To make the best homemade mac and cheese, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:

• 3 cups dry elbow macaroni 🍲
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk 🥛
• 1/3 cup milk of choice (whole milk, 2%, or even almond milk can work) 🥛
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded 🧀
• 1 teaspoon paprika 🌶️

Tip: For the creamiest texture, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the dish’s smoothness.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious baked mac and cheese that’s perfectly cheesy and bubbly every time.

1. Preheat Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Macaroni

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.

3. Add Butter

• Stir 4 tablespoons of butter into the hot macaroni until melted, coating the pasta well. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Milk Mixture

• In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, milk of choice, eggs, and garlic salt until smooth. This mixture will make the mac and cheese creamy.

5. Combine the Cheeses

• In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Building Layers of Flavor

The secret to this good old-fashioned mac and cheese is in the layers! By layering the ingredients, you get perfectly melted cheese throughout.

6. Layer the Mac and Cheese

• Begin by spreading one-third of the cooked macaroni in the baking pan.
• Sprinkle with one-third of the cheese mixture.
• Repeat the layers until all macaroni and cheese are used, creating a thick, cheesy masterpiece.

7. Add the Milk Mixture

• Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the macaroni layers, ensuring it seeps through each layer. This step makes the mac and cheese moist and flavorful.
• Sprinkle paprika over the top for a hint of color.

8. Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve warm and enjoy this classic comfort food that’s always a hit!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese

Here are some helpful tips to make this baked macaroni and cheese recipe even better:

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture. Sharp cheddar adds a rich taste, while mozzarella gives it a stretchy, creamy quality.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, undercooking it slightly helps prevent mushiness.
• Let it cool for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.

Delicious Variations for Mac and Cheese

Adding a unique twist to this classic mac and cheese recipe can elevate it to new levels. Here are some creative variations to try, each bringing different flavors and textures to this traditional dish.

1. Bacon Mac and Cheese

• How to Add: Fry or bake about ½ cup of chopped bacon until crispy. Stir the bacon bits into the layers of cheese and macaroni or sprinkle them on top before baking.
• Flavor Boost: The smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy macaroni, creating a satisfying depth of taste.

2. Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

• How to Add: Dice 1-2 jalapeños (remove seeds for milder spice) and mix them into the cheese layers.
• Flavor Boost: This variation adds a spicy kick, balancing the rich cheese flavor. For even more spice, use a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

• How to Add: Shred about 1 cup of cooked chicken and toss it with ¼ cup of buffalo sauce. Layer it with the macaroni and cheese.
• Flavor Boost: The tangy, spicy buffalo sauce brings a delicious contrast to the cheesy base, and chicken adds a protein boost.

4. Vegetable Mac and Cheese

• How to Add: Stir in a handful of steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or even roasted bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Flavor Boost: Vegetables add texture and fresh flavor, making this a wholesome twist on classic mac and cheese.

5. Four-Cheese Mac and Cheese

• How to Add: Instead of just cheddar and mozzarella, add ½ cup each of Gruyère and Parmesan. Mix all the cheeses together for a gourmet version.
• Flavor Boost: Combining multiple cheeses adds complexity and richness, with each cheese contributing its own flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Mac and Cheese

Leftovers are a great way to enjoy homemade mac and cheese for a quick meal or snack. Here’s how to store and reheat it while preserving its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftover mac and cheese to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: If you want to store it longer, place mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips

1. Oven Reheating: To reheat mac and cheese in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
2. Microwave Reheating: For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3. Add Milk or Cream: To restore creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or cream before reheating.

Pro Tip: If you plan to freeze mac and cheese, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

Ideal Side Dishes to Serve with Mac and Cheese

Looking for the perfect sides to complement this hearty comfort food? Here are some delicious options that pair well with macaroni and cheese.

1. Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of mac and cheese.

2. Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add flavor and a healthy contrast to the creamy texture.

3. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

• Serve warm, buttery garlic bread or breadsticks on the side for a classic combination that’s hard to beat.

4. Grilled Chicken

• A lean protein like grilled chicken makes a great accompaniment, turning mac and cheese into a more filling meal.

5. Tomato Soup

• Creamy tomato soup and mac and cheese are a cozy and comforting match, perfect for colder days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, other pasta shapes like penne, cavatappi, or shells can also work well with this baked mac and cheese recipe.

2. How do I keep mac and cheese creamy?
To prevent it from drying out, be sure to add enough milk mixture and avoid overbaking. Reheating with a splash of milk can also help restore creaminess.

3. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, if you prefer to skip the eggs, replace them with an additional 1/4 cup of milk to maintain a creamy texture.

Recipe Description and Notes

This Good Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, making it ideal for any occasion. With its rich, gooey layers and simple, classic ingredients, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

Notes:

• Customize with add-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or veggies to make it your own.
• For a crunchy top, consider sprinkling panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• This recipe can easily be halved or doubled depending on the number of servings you need.