Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

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Intro:
There’s nothing quite like the warm, cheesy embrace of a good ole fashion mac and cheese. This recipe brings back all the nostalgic flavors of Sunday suppers and holiday gatherings — made with simple ingredients, baked to golden perfection, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, it’s creamy, it’s got that irresistible crunchy top — and it’s just the kind of comfort food that feels like home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 3 cups whole milk (warm)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard (optional, for depth)

  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (for topping)

  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

  • Instructions:

    1. Cook the Pasta:
      Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

    2. Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux):
      In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes (until lightly golden and bubbly).

    3. Add Milk & Cream:
      Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth. Cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

    4. Season & Cheese It:
      Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan until melted and smooth.

    5. Combine:
      Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat evenly.

    6. Bake:
      Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

    7. Top It Off:
      Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac. Add remaining Parmesan on top.

    8. Bake Until Golden:
      Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

    9. Cool & Serve:
      Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Then dig in!

    10. Optional Add-Ins:

      • Crumbled crispy bacon

      • Caramelized onions

      • A pinch of cayenne for heat

      • Extra cheese layers for gooeyness

      • Let me know if you want a stovetop-only version or a spicy twist!

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